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Trials
Published in: Trials 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Probiotics | Study protocol

Effect of probiotics on nasal and intestinal microbiota in people with high exposure to particulate matter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study

Authors: Yongcan Wu, Caixia Pei, Xiaomin Wang, Mingjie Wang, Demei Huang, Fei Wang, Wei Xiao, Zhenxing Wang

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

Background

Extended exposure to high concentrations of PM2.5 changes the human microbiota profile, which in turn may increase morbidity and mortality due to respiratory system damage. A balanced microecosystem is crucial to human health, and certain health-related problems may be addressed by effective microecosystem regulation. Recent studies have confirmed that probiotics may reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases. However, few studies have investigated probiotic treatment outcomes in subjects exposed to high concentrations of PM2.5.

Methods

This study is designed as a prospective, randomized, participants- and assessor-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. One hundred and twenty eligible volunteers recruited from October 2019 to July 2020 in downtown Chengdu, China, will be treated with either probiotics or placebo over 4 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome will be 16SrRNA sequencing assay data from nasal and intestinal secretions. Secondary outcomes will be pulmonary function, score on a gastrointestinal symptom rating scale, COOP/WONCA charts, and the Short-Form Health Survey 36 for quality of life. Results will be analyzed to assess differences in clinical efficacy between groups. Six-month follow-up examinations will evaluate the long-term value of probiotics on cardiovascular and respiratory disease end-point events.

Discussion

We will explore the characteristics of nasal and intestinal microbiota in a population with high exposure to PM2.5. Probiotics and placebo interventions will be tested for efficacy in microbial balance regulation, effects on lung and physical functions, and quality of life improvement. This study is expected to provide reliable evidence to support the widespread promotion of probiotics in clinical practice for the protection of individuals with high exposure to PM2.5.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1900025469​. Registered on 27 August 2019.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Effect of probiotics on nasal and intestinal microbiota in people with high exposure to particulate matter ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
Authors
Yongcan Wu
Caixia Pei
Xiaomin Wang
Mingjie Wang
Demei Huang
Fei Wang
Wei Xiao
Zhenxing Wang
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Trials / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-020-04759-4

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