Lactobacilli can attenuate inflammation in mouse macrophages exposed to polyethylene particles in vitro.

Lactobacillus strains were found to modulate the cytokines in a strain and dose specific manner. Only the Lactobacillus acidophilus strain that was tested was able to attenuate PE particle-induced TNF-α production by RAW 246.7 macrophages. This effect was independent of IL-10 cytokine levels since all three strains of lactobacilli yielded comparable levels of IL-10. It was concluded that some, but not all, Lactobacillus strains may be useful in reducing the risk of inflammatory osteolysis and that further studies in appropriate in vivo models are warranted. Furthermore, this in vitro model can be used to evaluate the inflammatory potential of new materials being tested for use as joint implants.