AIIMS Study Reveals Probiotic as a New Ally for Women’s Bone Health

New Delhi: A groundbreaking study by AIIMS’ Department of Biotechnology offers fresh hope for women suffering from postmenopausal osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones rapidly after menopause. For the first time, researchers have shown that a common probiotic bacterium, Lactobacillus acidophilus, can slow down bone loss by modulating the immune system.

Published in the Journal of Cellular Physiology and supported by ANRF, the study highlights that osteoporosis is not just caused by calcium deficiency but is significantly influenced by immune system imbalances. Postmenopausal estrogen decline disrupts immune cell balance, particularly regulatory T-cells (Tregs) in the gut, leading to an increase in Th17 inflammatory cells that accelerate bone breakdown.

How the Probiotic Works

Dr. Rupesh Kumar Shrivastava explained that administering Lactobacillus acidophilus restores the disrupted immune balance. The probiotic produces butyrate in the gut, which activates immune cells that protect bones and reduce the activity of osteoclasts—cells responsible for bone resorption. In simple terms, the probiotic indirectly slows down bone degradation, offering a promising, safe alternative to traditional therapies.

Why This Study Matters

This research is the first to demonstrate that the gut-immune system plays a critical role in osteoporosis. It opens the door for diet-based or probiotic therapies for postmenopausal women, moving beyond conventional treatments like calcium, vitamin D, or hormone replacement.

With osteoporosis affecting millions of women globally, this discovery could redefine preventive and therapeutic strategies, offering a natural and effective approach to maintaining bone health after menopause.