The Mental Wellness Boom Meets Probiotic Innovation: Unlocking the Gut-Brain Axis with L. casei IDCC 3451

In recent years, global interest in mental health solutions has accelerated—particularly in areas that intersect with gut health. According to Grand View Research, the global mental wellness market surpassed USD 150 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at over 5% CAGR through 2030. Within this context, probiotics have begun gaining attention not only for digestive health but also for their influence on mood, cognition, and neuroinflammation.

Among the growing body of research, one concept has taken center stage: the gut-brain axis—a complex bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal system with the central nervous system. As stress-related disorders rise, the gut-brain axis offers a compelling framework to understand and intervene in mental health from a microbial perspective.

Lacticaseibacillus casei IDCC 3451: A Next-Gen Psychobiotic Candidate

At ILDONG Bioscience, our R&D efforts have identified a standout candidate: Lacticaseibacillus casei IDCC 3451. While traditionally known for its support of gastrointestinal balance, recent findings reveal this strain’s multi-systemic impact—extending to behavior, cognition, and intestinal resilience under stress.

In a groundbreaking study published in Current Research in Food Science (2025), researchers evaluated the effects of L. casei IDCC 3451 on both neurological and intestinal models of stress. The study incorporated C. elegans, UCMS (Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress) mice, and DSS-induced colitis mice models to demonstrate the broad and interconnected benefits of this strain.

Preclinical Evidence: From Nematodes to Mice

In C. elegans, L. casei IDCC 3451 extended lifespan by 25%, improved motility, and enhanced sensory function. Most notably, amyloid beta accumulation was reduced by 42%, suggesting potential applications in neurodegenerative disease models. Gene expression profiling revealed upregulation of neurotransmission pathways—including those involving serine/threonine signaling and G-protein coupled receptors, further reinforcing its neuroregulatory potential.

In UCMS mice, daily administration of 3451 led to striking behavioral improvements:

• 65% increase in time spent in the center of the open field test (indicative of reduced anxiety)

• 32% reduction in immobility during the forced swim test (suggestive of antidepressant effects)

• Restored cognitive function in both Y-maze and novel object recognition tests

Biochemically, the strain helped normalize markers of stress-induced hepatic dysfunction, reducing AST by 18% and GGT by 24%. Additionally, it restored the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Claudin1), 5HT1A and GABA receptors, and anti-inflammatory markers like IL-10, helping rebuild the integrity of the intestinal barrier—a key factor in regulating neuroinflammation.

In the DSS-induced colitis model, the benefits extended to inflammation-driven intestinal damage:

• 36% reduction in Disease Activity Index (DAI)

• Improved goblet cell preservation and epithelial structure (via histological scoring)

• Increased levels of beneficial metabolites like L-threonine, propionic acid, and glutamic acid, all correlating with commensal bacteria such as Coprococcus, Bifidobacterium, and Butyricimonas

These data collectively highlight the systemic influence of 3451 across the microbiome–gut–brain axis, suggesting it as a strong psychobiotic candidate for both mood and gut inflammation management.

Powered by Q-Shield®: Delivering Enhanced Stability and Survivability

Beyond scientific efficacy, formulation feasibility is critical for commercial success. ILDONG Bioscience’s proprietary Q-Shield® coating technology addresses one of the most persistent challenges in probiotic development: stability.

By forming a protective micro-layer around probiotic cells, Q-Shield® guards against gastric acid, heat, moisture, and oxidation—preserving CFU potency throughout production, transport, and storage. This makes it ideal not only for traditional capsules, but also for powders, sachets, and functional food applications where survivability is paramount.

Final Thoughts

Lacticaseibacillus casei IDCC 3451 is not just another probiotic—it represents a clinically substantiated, technologically advanced psychobiotic platform. With rising global demand for mood-enhancing, inflammation-regulating, and gut-repairing solutions, strain 3451 offers evidence-backed potential in functional supplements, medical nutrition, and gut-brain axis product pipelines.

As interest in mental wellness and microbiome-targeted interventions continues to grow, ILDONG Bioscience remains committed to advancing the frontier of psychobiotic research—where the science of gut health meets the future of emotional resilience.