Probiotic Strain Of E. Coli Inhibits Salmonella Replication In The Gut

U.S. researchers have determined that a probiotic strain of E. coli used to treat irritable bowel syndrome actually inhibits salmonella colonization in the gut, reducing the risk of bacterial infections. The probiotic bacterium competes with salmonella for iron, an essential nutrient found in  the gut that salmonella needs to replicate at high levels. Salmonella counts in the gut drop significantly when the E. coli strain Nissle 1917is administered to patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers hope that by understanding how pathogens get nutrients, it will be easier to find ways to eradicate them.