Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components, typically fibers such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), that beneficially affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth or activity of beneficial gut bacteria. Peyer’s patches are lymphoid nodules in the small intestine that play a critical role in mucosal immunity by sampling antigens from the gut lumen and generating immune responses.

There is moderate scientific evidence that prebiotics can influence the immune system via effects on gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), of which Peyer’s patches are a major component. Prebiotics promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli), which in turn produce short-chain fatty acids and other metabolites that can modulate immune responses. Animal studies and some human trials have shown that prebiotic supplementation can enhance secretory IgA production, increase the number or activity of immune cells in Peyer’s patches, and improve mucosal barrier function. For example, a review in Frontiers in Immunology (2017) and studies on inulin-type fructans have demonstrated immunomodulatory effects involving Peyer’s patches. However, most evidence is from animal models or in vitro studies, with limited direct evidence in humans.

Overall, while there is some mechanistic and preclinical support for prebiotics affecting Peyer’s patches and intestinal immunity, more robust clinical evidence is needed. Thus, the rating is 3.

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