The efficacy of probiotics in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (an animal model for MS): a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Probiotics immunomodulatory properties and their beneficial effects for diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are reported by several studies. The current systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to investigate the favourable effects of probiotics in improving experimental autoimmune/allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) as an animal model of MS. We systematically searched Scopus, Web of Sciences (ISI), and PubMed databases to identify relevant studies from the inception of these databases to December 2019. A total of 15 animal studies met the inclusion criteria, while no human study met the inclusion criteria. The association between consumption of probiotics and each sign was calculated using the producing pooled odd ratios (95% confidence interval [95% CI]) in a random effect model. The meta‐analysis revealed the significant effect of probiotics on the incidence of EAE, weight gain, and clinical symptoms. However, the effects of probiotics on the duration of the disease varied by probiotic strain. The administration of probiotics was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of mortality only in female animals. Moreover, the meta‐analysis revealed the promising effects of probiotics on the prevention and management of EAE. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease, and its treatment is a challenge for the researcher. One of the options for treating this disease is the use of different probiotics, so we tried to review and analyse the results of researches that used probiotics for the treatment of Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (an animal model for MS). The effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment and improvement of MS can make a big difference in the life quality of patients.