Probiotic Yoghurt Shows Potential to Support Breast Cancer Chemotherapy, CONICET Study Finds

An experimental probiotic yoghurt developed by researchers at Argentina's National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) has demonstrated promising results when administered alongside chemotherapy in a mouse model of breast cancer. The study found reductions in tumour size and weight, alongside improvements in several treatment-related side effects, highlighting the potential role of functional dairy products in nutritional support during cancer therapy.

Reduced Tumour Growth and Metastatic Activity

The research was conducted by scientists at the Centre for Reference for Lactobacilli (CERELA), a research centre associated with CONICET and other Argentine institutions. The team evaluated a probiotic yoghurt containing selected lactic acid bacteria in animals receiving chemotherapy drugs, including capecitabine and 5-fluorouracil. The experimental findings indicated that probiotic yoghurt administration was associated with approximately 50% reductions in tumour size and weight. Researchers also observed a significant reduction in the area affected by lung metastases, suggesting potential benefits beyond the primary tumour.

Supporting the Body During Chemotherapy

Beyond tumour-related outcomes, the probiotic formulation demonstrated protective effects against several adverse consequences associated with chemotherapy. The researchers reported that yoghurt consumption helped: ___PROTECTED_BLOCK_0___ The findings suggest that probiotic foods may have potential as nutritional complements during cancer treatment, particularly in addressing gastrointestinal complications and treatment-related discomfort.

Two Selected Bacterial Strains Form the Basis of the Yoghurt

The experimental formulation contains two lactic acid bacterial strains maintained in CERELA's culture collection: ___PROTECTED_BLOCK_1___ The microorganisms were originally isolated from traditional artisanal food products in northwestern Argentina and selected for their immunomodulatory properties. The researchers are also exploring alternative delivery formats, including capsules and powdered supplements, for individuals experiencing nausea, appetite loss or digestive intolerance during chemotherapy.

From Laboratory Research to Dairy Industry Opportunities

The research team is exploring partnerships with dairy companies and other producers to advance the development towards industrial-scale manufacturing. Future work will involve standardising production, evaluating bacterial stability and ensuring consistent product quality. However, the researchers emphasise that the results remain preclinical. The findings were obtained in mice and cannot establish that the yoghurt reduces cancer or improves chemotherapy outcomes in humans. Clinical studies will be necessary to determine its safety and effectiveness in patients.

A New Frontier for Functional Dairy Products

The research highlights an emerging opportunity for the dairy industry at the intersection of food science, microbiology and healthcare-oriented nutrition. While conventional dairy products primarily serve nutritional and culinary purposes, specialised probiotic formulations could potentially expand the role of dairy in targeted nutritional support. For dairy manufacturers, the project also illustrates how collaboration between scientific institutions and food producers may translate laboratory discoveries into differentiated functional food products. Source:  Read full story here 13 Nov, 2026 Edited and Reported by #DairyIndustry #ProbioticYoghurt #DairyInnovation #FunctionalFoods, #Probiotics or #FoodScience.