Neuroprotective mechanisms of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) pose significant global health challenges. Emerging preclinical evidence has highlighted the potential role of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum; abbreviated as L. plantarum), a widely studied probiotic, in modulating pathological processes relevant to these disorders. This review summarizes current findings primarily derived from in vitro and animal studies, focusing on the regulation of inflammation, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress, which collectively influence gut–brain axis signaling. Available evidence suggests that L. plantarum may exert neuroprotective effects by improving gut microbial composition, attenuating inflammatory responses, and enhancing antioxidant capacity. Although these findings provide mechanistic insights and a theoretical foundation for future research, clinical evidence remains limited. Further well-designed clinical studies are required to clarify its translational potential in neurodegenerative diseases.