<i>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</i> PB01 Oral Supplementation Alleviates Metabolic and Reproductive Dysfunctions in Type 1 Diabetic Male Rats

This study investigated the potential therapeutic effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus PB01 supplementation on metabolic and reproductive dysfunctions in Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) rat model. Diabetic rats treated with L. rhamnosus PB01 (1 × 10⁹ CFU/day) showed significant improvements in metabolic and reproductive outcomes. Specifically, diabetes-induced weight loss was mitigated by approximately 13%, and the percentage of hyperactivated sperm in the treatment group was significantly 2.5 times higher than that of the diabetic controls. Additionally, testosterone levels were significantly elevated by 27%, further supporting the positive effects on reproductive health. The probiotic supplementation also led to improvements in insulin sensitivity, as evidenced by a 34.12% reduction in homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). L. rhamnosus PB01 (DSM 14870) demonstrated potential as an adjunct therapy for managing T1DM-associated complications in the rat model, by improving insulin sensitivity, supporting weight management, and partially restoring diabetes-related fertility impairments, likely through modulation of hormonal pathways. However, further studies are needed to translate the results to humans and refine optimal dosing and supplementation duration for sustained benefits.