The potential application of probiotics for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19

BACKGROUND: Given the severe infection, poor prognosis, and the low number of available effective drugs, potential prevention and treatment strategies for COVID-19 need to be urgently developed. MAIN BODY: Herein, we present and discuss the possible protective and therapeutic mechanisms of human microbiota and probiotics based on the previous and recent findings. Microbiota and probiotics consist of mixed cultures of living microorganisms that can positively affect human health through their antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effect. In the current study, we address the promising advantages of microbiota and probiotics in decreasing the risk of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, we recommend further studies be conducted for assessing and evaluating the capability of these microbes in the battle against COVID-19.