Bioactive Influence of Cell-Free Supernatant from Lactoplantibacillus plantarum Strains on Probiotic Bifidobacteria: Preliminary Study on Growth and Survival Kinetic Parameters

The positive effects of probiotic strains on human health are well documented, with growing evidence that interactions between different strains enhance these benefits. Lactoplantibacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., key members of the gut microbiota, have been extensively studied for their probiotic potential. This study presents preliminary findings on the bioactive effects of cell-free supernatants from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains on bifidobacteria. Using the Gompertz equation, the impact on microbial growth kinetics was analyzed, revealing strain- and species-dependent stimulation or inhibition during the growth and death phases. These findings suggest potential prebiotic activity and represent novel insights into L. plantarum supernatants’ bioactivity on bifidobacteria.