Impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Probiotic on Influenza Vaccine Efficacy in Diabetic Rats: An Immunological Perspective

Background and Objective: In previous fascinating studies, the potential role of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a yeast essential in bread and beer production, as a probiotic in regulating immune responses has been illuminated. This study investigated the effects of administering S. cerevisiae alongside influenza vaccinations in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into four groups: A non-diabetic control group (UN), an induced diabetic group (UD), diabetes with flu vaccine group (DF) and diabetes with a combination of flu vaccine and the S. cerevisiae group (DFS). Immune responses were measured by analyzing serum cytokine levels (IL-15, IL-18, IL-23 and IL-25) and antibody levels (total IgG, IgM, IgG and IgG subclasses). The statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA to determine significant differences among the groups. Results: Analysis of immune responses revealed significant differences among the groups’ serum. The DF rats showed elevated levels of IL-15, IL-18, IL-23 and IL-25 cytokines compared to the UN group. However, the DFS group exhibited decreased cytokine levels compared to the UD and DF groups. Antibody analysis showed lower IgG and IgM antibody levels in UD rats compared to UN. In contrast, DF rats had increased antibody levels, indicating an enhanced immune response. Interestingly, DFS rats had reduced total IgG and IgM levels compared to DF. Examination of IgG subclasses revealed elevated levels in DF and DFS groups compared to UD. However, the DFS group showed a decrease in one subclass but an increase in others compared to DF. Conclusion: These findings suggested that while S. cerevisiae has immune-modulating potential, its use as a probiotic may compromise the response to influenza vaccination in diabetic rats, necessitating further research to understand quality, infection monitoring and medication interactions on immune-compromised individuals.