Due to the increasing attention on aging-related health issues, this study focuses on the elderly population as participants. The aim is to investigate whether supplementation with Lactobacillus plantarum LP28 can effectively enhance immunity, reduce the frequency and severity of common cold infections, and ultimately promote overall health in the elderly.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
102
LP28 capsule : 5.0×10\^9 CFU/capsule
Maltodextrin
National Chung Hsing University
Taichung, Taiwan
Taichung Veterans General Hospital
Taichung, Taiwan
WURSS-24
The WURSS-24 (Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-24) is a questionnaire designed to assess the impact of upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold, on daily life and health. It includes 24 questions covering symptoms (e.g., cough, runny nose, fatigue) and how they affect daily activities, work, and social interactions. Patients rate each item on a scale from 0 (no problem) to 7 (severe problem).
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure daily)
Immune cell ratio
Blood samples were collected, and the proportions of immune cells were analyzed using flow cytometry, including: (1) CD3+/lymphocyte, (2) CD4+/CD3+, (3) CD8+/CD3+, and (4) CD56+CD16+/lymphocyte.
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure every 6 weeks)
NK cell activity
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, and magnetic bead-based separation was used to deplete non-NK cells. The K562 human immortalized myelogenous leukemia cell line was then used as target cells, and the proportion of K562 cells lysed by NK cells was measured as an indicator of NK cell activity.
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure every 6 weeks)
Cytokines measurement
Plasma was collected, and cytokine concentrations were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The detection items included IL-4, IL-6, IL-12, IFN-γ, CRP and TNF-α.
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure every 6 weeks)
sIgA
Saliva samples were collected, and Secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) concentrations were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure every 6 weeks)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
α-amylase
Saliva samples were collected, and α-amylase concentrations were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure every 6 weeks)
GSRS questionnaire
The Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) is a questionnaire used to evaluate the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms. It includes questions on five key areas: abdominal pain, reflux, diarrhea, indigestion, and constipation. Patients rate their symptoms on a 7-point Likert scale, where higher scores indicate more severe symptoms.
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure weekly)
Defecation frequency and stool pattern
Defecation frequency was recorded, and stool characteristics, including shape, consistency, and color, were documented using the Bristol Stool Chart.
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks (measure weekly)