Scientists have successfully isolated a strain of the probiotic *Bifidobacterium breve* PRL2020 that can survive and remain stable even in the presence of amoxicillin/amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) antibiotics. The research has been published in the scientific journals *Microorganisms* (MDPI) and *Applied and Environmental Microbiology* (AEM).

According to the research team, this is a breakthrough in applied microbiology, promising to open up new directions for preventive medicine and digestive system care during antibiotic treatments.

Illustration of the gut microbiome. Photo: *Microba*

Importantly, studies have also confirmed that this probiotic strain does not carry the risk of transferring antibiotic resistance genes to other bacteria – a critical factor in ensuring biosafety when applied on a large scale.

PharmaExtracta, a reputable pharmaceutical company in Italy, is currently researching and developing *Bifidobacterium breve* PRL2020 for use in healthcare products. Experts believe this is a significant advancement for antibiotic-resistant probiotics, offering a safer and more effective solution for protecting and restoring gut microbiota.

Antibiotics are crucial in treating bacterial infections. However, in addition to killing harmful bacteria, antibiotics also damage beneficial microorganisms in the body, especially in the gut, which houses 70% of immune cells. This explains why patients, especially children, often experience diarrhea, digestive disorders, reduced resistance, and prolonged weakness after a course of antibiotics.

While probiotics are often recommended for use alongside antibiotics, most common probiotic strains are deactivated in the presence of antibiotics, making their protective effects negligible.

The Dan