［Health Science］

Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma Stars in New Products

  • Health and Well-Being
  • R&D

2018.08.02

  • Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma Stars in New Products

Kirin discovers lactic acid bacterium that activates "commander in chief" of immune system

  • Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma image

An aging population and increased interest in wellness are driving demand for health-supporting foods that fit people's lifestyles. In response, we have formed a group-wide joint research team to leverage our experience and expertise in biotechnology and fermentation. Based on its scientific studies, this joint R&D team applies its findings to the development of food products for healthy living.
Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma was discovered by our joint team in 2011. This is the only lactic acid bacterium that has been confirmed to directly activate Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) — which together act as the "commander in chief" of the immune system. The team's findings on the unique activity of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma have been met with critical acclaim following presentations at medical conferences and publication in respected journals.

Targeting healthcare professionals

Kirin Group companies are applying the fruits of this research to their businesses. Koiwai, Kirin Beverages, and Kyowa Hakko Bio have rolled out products incorporating Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma in the yoghurt (probiotic drink), soft drink, and dietary supplement categories, respectively. In 2017 we unified the branding of our own Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma formulated products and partnered with external companies to grow this market.
In addition, we have developed products specifically to be marketed through healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, nurses and nutritionists. The first such product, launched in December 2017, is a chewable supplement that can be taken without water.

Academic journals, worldwide, have published 13 of our research team's papers about Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma functionality. These articles have been cited frequently by other researchers in their own research papers.
Meanwhile, we are educating the public about Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma. Based on expert opinion and the scientifically verified efficacy of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma, we have also begun promoting it through specialists advising those with elevated health concerns — such as the elderly and parents of small children. As we raise awareness of Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma among the general population and bolster our unified marketing efforts, the Kirin Group is helping to meet the health challenges that today's society faces.

Working through healthcare professionals

  • Working through healthcare professionals

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are directly activated by Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma

Various types of immune cells work together to protect against viral infection. But conventional lactic acid bacteria can stimulate only a few of these, such as NK cells. In contrast, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma directly activates pDCs, which act together in the role of "commander in chief" of the immune system. This greatly increases the anti-viral potential of the peripheral immune function.

  • Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are directly activated by Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma image

*Stated information as at the date it is made

Stories

Value Creation Model

Kirin Group is aiming to partner with society in achieving mutual growth by
placing CSV at the core of its management.

We create social value and economic value by solving social issues through our business activities in the Group.
Value Creation Model is our business model that amplifies the two values through a sustainable cycle of reinvesting the economic value in our drivers.