Immuse® - Clinical Research Data Summary
Immuse® Heat-Killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 (LC-Plasma)
Immuse® is a clinically studied ingredient used in the following Silver Fern™ Brand product:
- Postbiotic+ – https://www.silverfernbrand.com/products/postbiotic
Introduction
Immuse® is a clinically researched postbiotic ingredient made from heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma (JCM5805). Research suggests it interacts with the immune system by activating plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), specialized immune cells involved in coordinating antiviral signaling and immune communication. Through this mechanism, Immuse® has been studied for its ability to support immune readiness and normal immune system function during everyday environmental and physical stressors. Because the ingredient consists of heat-killed bacterial cells rather than live probiotics, Immuse® provides a stable and well-tolerated option for daily immune support.*
These are the studies for Immuse®. Below, we provided a summary of each key data for each study, along with a link to the complete clinical research.
- Summary of Study 1 – Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24239838/
- Summary of Study 2 – Full Study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1181545/
- Summary of Study 3 – Full Study: https://www.academia.edu/112724573/
- Summary of Study 4 – Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26234407/
- Summary of Study 5 – Full Study: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=75999
- Summary of Study 6 – Full Study: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464617303274
- Summary of Study 7 – Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34683350/
- Summary of Study 8 – Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803200/
- Summary of Study 9 – Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30071871/
- Summary of Study 10 – Full Study: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=84287
Ingredient Manufacturer Link: https://immusehealth.com/
Study 1 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24239838/
Immunomodulatory Effect of Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 on Human Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells
Clin Immunol. 2013 Dec;149(3):509–518. doi:10.1016/j.clim.2013.10.007.
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are specialized immune cells involved in coordinating innate immune signaling, particularly through the production of type I interferons that help regulate host defense pathways. This study combined in vitro immune cell experiments with a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effects of oral intake of yogurt fermented with L. lactis JCM5805 on immune biomarkers associated with pDC activation.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial with supporting in vitro validation
- Population: Healthy adults, including individuals with lower baseline pDC activity
- Intervention: Yogurt fermented with Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 (~100 billion heat-treated cells/day)
- Duration: 4 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell (pDC) Activity
Participants consuming the JCM5805-containing yogurt showed increased plasmacytoid dendritic cell activity compared with placebo. The change was more pronounced among individuals with lower baseline pDC activity, suggesting the ingredient may help support normal immune signaling in individuals with lower initial immune biomarker levels.
2. Interferon (IFN) Signaling Capacity
Researchers observed increased interferon-related signaling responses during supplementation. Type I interferons are immune signaling molecules involved in coordinating innate immune responses and communication between immune cells.
3. Upper Respiratory Symptom Measures
Participants consuming the JCM5805-containing yogurt showed changes in reported upper respiratory symptom measures compared with placebo during the study period, with statistically significant differences between groups reported.
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the study findings, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Support increased plasmacytoid dendritic cell activity in healthy adults
✓ Support increased interferon-related immune signaling
✓ Show strongest immune biomarker changes in individuals with lower baseline immune activity
✓ Be associated with changes in reported upper respiratory symptom measures
✓ Be well tolerated with no clinically significant safety concerns
Why This Study Matters
Although this study focused primarily on immune biomarkers rather than clinical outcomes, the findings illustrate how specific postbiotic ingredients may influence normal immune signaling pathways. The observed changes in plasmacytoid dendritic cell activity and interferon-related signaling suggest that certain bacterial strains can interact with early immune communication pathways that help coordinate the body's response to everyday environmental stressors. Because the ingredient consists of heat-treated bacterial cells rather than live microorganisms, it also offers a stable postbiotic option suitable for routine daily use.*
Reference Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24239838/
Study 2 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1181545/
Gene Expression and Antiviral Activity of Alpha/Beta Interferons and Interleukin-29 in Virus-Infected Human Myeloid Dendritic Cells
J Virol. 2005 Aug;79(15):9608-9617. doi:10.1128/JVI.79.15.9608-9617.2005.
This mechanistic study examined how human monocyte-derived myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) respond to viral stimulation and how prior exposure to interferon-α influences their immune signaling capacity. By comparing immune responses to influenza A virus and Sendai virus in cell culture models, researchers evaluated changes in dendritic cell maturation, cytokine signaling, and interferon-regulated gene expression.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: In vitro mechanistic study (cell culture model)
- Cells studied: Human monocyte-derived myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs)
- Viral stimuli: Influenza A virus and Sendai virus
- Note: This was a laboratory study of immune cells — no human supplementation or oral dosing was involved
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Dendritic Cell Maturation
Influenza A virus alone induced relatively limited dendritic cell maturation. Sendai virus induced stronger maturation and cytokine signaling. Pretreatment with interferon-α enhanced dendritic cell maturation following influenza stimulation, suggesting interferon signaling influences how dendritic cells respond to immune challenges.
2. Cytokine and Interferon Gene Expression
After interferon-α priming, influenza stimulation resulted in increased expression of several immune-related cytokines and interferon pathways, including TNF-α, IFN-α and IFN-β (Type I interferons), and IL-28 and IL-29 (Type III interferons).
3. Immune Signaling Pathways
Interferon-α priming also increased expression of several immune signaling components involved in pathogen recognition and immune communication, including Toll-like receptors (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8), adaptor proteins such as MyD88 and TRIF, transcription factors including IRF7, and activation of IRF3 and NF-κB signaling pathways.
Benefits of Immuse® Supported by This Study
Based on the mechanistic findings, this research demonstrates:
✓ Interferon signaling enhances immune cell maturation and response capacity
✓ Dendritic cells respond more effectively when interferon pathways are active
✓ Toll-like receptors and interferon pathways are central to early immune communication
✓ Immune cell readiness influences how immune cells coordinate responses to environmental challenges
Why This Study Matters
Although conducted in laboratory immune cell models, the findings help explain how the body's immune system prepares for and responds to environmental challenges. The research shows that dendritic cells respond more effectively when interferon signaling pathways are active, allowing immune cells to recognize and coordinate responses more efficiently. This provides mechanistic context for why ingredients that interact with dendritic cells and interferon signaling are studied for their role in supporting normal immune system function.*
Reference Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1181545/
Study 3 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://www.academia.edu/112724573/
Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 Activates Anti-Viral Immunity and Reduces Symptoms of Common Cold and Influenza in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal of Functional Foods. 2016;24:492–500. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2016.04.024.
In this randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 396 healthy adults consumed capsules containing JCM5805 for 12 weeks while researchers monitored immune markers and participant-reported upper respiratory symptom measures.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial
- Participants: 396 healthy adults (205 placebo, 191 JCM5805)
- Daily dose: ~100 billion heat-treated cells of Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 (oral capsule)
- Duration: 12 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Upper Respiratory Symptom Measures
- JCM5805 group symptom incidence: 28.8% vs. 35.1% in placebo group
- Approximately 18% relative difference in reported symptom incidence between groups
2. Symptom Duration Measures
- Sore throat: approximately 50% fewer reported symptom days compared with placebo
- Cough: approximately 33% fewer reported symptom days compared with placebo
- Both outcomes were statistically significant
3. Immune Biomarker Changes
- Increased HLA-DR expression on plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs)
- Increased IFN-α gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)
- Increased VIPERIN gene expression, an interferon-stimulated immune pathway
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Support an approximately 18% relative difference in reported upper respiratory symptom incidence
✓ Support approximately 50% fewer sore throat symptom days
✓ Support approximately 33% fewer cough symptom days
✓ Support increased HLA-DR expression on pDCs
✓ Support increased IFN-α and VIPERIN gene expression
✓ Be well tolerated throughout 12 weeks of supplementation
Why This Study Matters
This large, 12-week randomized trial provides both clinical and mechanistic evidence that JCM5805 influences immune communication pathways and symptom measures simultaneously. The convergent findings — fewer reported symptom days alongside increased pDC activation and interferon gene expression — help explain the proposed mechanism by which Immuse® supports immune readiness.*
Reference Link: https://www.academia.edu/112724573/
Study 4 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26234407/
Effects of Oral Intake of a Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell–Stimulative Lactic Acid Bacterial Strain on Influenza-Like Illness and Immune Response
Br J Nutr. 2015;114(5):727–733. doi:10.1017/S0007114515002408.
This randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated whether oral intake of heat-killed L. lactis JCM5805 could influence immune biomarkers and participant-reported upper respiratory symptom measures in 214 healthy adults over a ten-week intervention period.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Participants: 214 healthy adults
- Intervention: Yogurt containing ~100 billion heat-treated cells of Lactococcus lactis JCM5805
- Duration: 10 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Upper Respiratory Symptom Measures
Participants consuming JCM5805 yogurt reported differences in the cumulative number of days certain upper respiratory symptoms were experienced during the study period compared with the placebo group, with statistically significant differences reported.
2. Immune Biomarker Responses
Blood cells collected from participants were stimulated with inactivated influenza virus and the JCM5805 group demonstrated:
- Increased IFN-α production
- Upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes, including ISG15
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Support differences in cumulative upper respiratory symptom days over 10 weeks
✓ Support increased IFN-α production in response to viral stimulation
✓ Support upregulation of interferon-stimulated gene ISG15
✓ Be well tolerated over a 10-week supplementation period
Why This Study Matters
This study provides additional human evidence that daily intake of JCM5805 influences interferon-related signaling pathways and supports differences in symptom reporting over an extended period. The interferon-stimulated gene expression changes observed in lab assays provide mechanistic context for the clinical symptom findings.*
Reference Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26234407/
Study 5 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=75999
Preventive Effect of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis JCM5805 Yogurt Intake on Influenza Infection among Schoolchildren
Health. 2017;9:756–762. doi:10.4236/health.2017.95054.
This community-based observational intervention study examined whether regular consumption of yogurt containing heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 was associated with differences in reported influenza incidence during a winter season. The study compared influenza outcomes between a town in which schoolchildren regularly consumed JCM5805 yogurt and a neighboring town without the intervention.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Community-based observational intervention study
- Location: Shizukuishi town, Iwate Prefecture, Japan vs. neighboring control town
- Population: 780 elementary + 475 junior high school students (intervention); 208 elementary + 121 junior high (control)
- Intervention: Yogurt containing heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805, 3 times per week via school distribution
- Duration: Approximately 9 weeks during winter season (January–March 2015)
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
- The intervention town showed approximately 66% lower reported weekly influenza incidence rate compared with the control town during the observation period
- Lower cumulative influenza rates were reported in elementary school students and the combined elementary and junior high school population
- Differences were observed during the seasonal observation window
Benefits of Immuse® Supported by This Study
Based on the community study findings, regular JCM5805 yogurt consumption was associated with:
✓ Approximately 66% lower reported weekly influenza incidence in the intervention population
✓ Lower cumulative influenza rates across multiple school age groups
✓ A real-world observational example of population-level seasonal immune support
Why This Study Matters
Although this was a community observational study rather than a randomized supplementation trial, the findings illustrate how dietary habits may be associated with differences in seasonal health patterns in real-world settings such as schools. The study highlights the potential relevance of food-based postbiotic ingredients as part of broader lifestyle approaches that support immune system function.*
Reference Link: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=75999
Study 6 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464617303274
Effects of Heat-Killed Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis JCM 5805 on Mucosal and Systemic Immune Parameters, and Antiviral Reactions to Influenza Virus in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Study
Journal of Functional Foods. 2017;35:513–521. doi:10.1016/j.jff.2017.06.018.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated whether short-term supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 could influence markers of mucosal immunity, innate immune activity, and immune-related gene expression in 111 healthy adults over a four-week intervention period.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Participants: 111 healthy adults
- Daily dose: Capsules containing ~100 billion heat-killed cells of Lactococcus lactis JCM5805
- Duration: 4 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Mucosal Immune Marker (Salivary IgA)
Participants in the JCM5805 group showed a statistically significant increase in salivary IgA levels compared with the placebo group (p < 0.05). Salivary IgA is an immune component commonly measured in studies evaluating mucosal immune responses at the mouth and upper respiratory tract.
2. Innate Immune Cell Activity
The JCM5805 group demonstrated a significant increase in neutrophil phagocytic activity, indicating changes in the functional activity of innate immune cells compared with placebo.
3. Immune-Related Gene Expression
Following stimulation with viral antigens in laboratory testing, participants in the JCM5805 group showed increased expression of several interferon-related genes, including:
- IRF7
- MX1
- OAS1
4. Symptom Observations
Participants receiving JCM5805 reported lower sore throat severity scores compared with the placebo group during the study period.
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Support significant increases in salivary IgA, a mucosal immune marker
✓ Support increased neutrophil phagocytic activity
✓ Support increased expression of immune-related genes IRF7, MX1, and OAS1
✓ Support lower sore throat severity scores compared with placebo
✓ Be well tolerated over 4 weeks of daily supplementation
Why This Study Matters
Because the mouth and upper respiratory tract are key interfaces between the body and the external environment, markers such as salivary IgA and innate immune cell activity are often evaluated in research exploring everyday immune resilience. This study provides evidence that JCM5805 supports multiple aspects of mucosal and innate immune function simultaneously.*
Reference Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464617303274
Study 7 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34683350/
Effects of Heat-Killed Lactococcus lactis Strain Plasma on Skin Homeostasis-Related Genes and the Skin Microbiome among Healthy Adults: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Study
Microorganisms. 2021;9(10):2029. doi:10.3390/microorganisms9102029.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated whether oral supplementation with heat-killed LC-plasma could influence markers related to skin homeostasis, including skin microbiome stability and the expression of genes associated with barrier integrity and antimicrobial peptides in 70 healthy adults over an eight-week intervention.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Participants: 70 healthy adults
- Intervention: Oral supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma (LC-plasma)
- Duration: 8 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Skin Microbiome Stability
Skin microbiome diversity (alpha diversity) remained stable in both groups. The number of bacterial species showing significant change during the study was approximately 10-fold lower in the LC-plasma group compared with placebo, suggesting greater microbiome stability over time.
2. Skin Barrier–Related Gene Expression
Participants in the LC-plasma group showed significant upregulation of tight-junction–related genes, including CLDN1 (Claudin-1) and CLDN12 (Claudin-12), genes commonly studied in relation to epidermal barrier structure and skin homeostasis.
3. Antimicrobial Peptide Gene Expression
Expression of BD3 (β-defensin-3) was significantly increased in the LC-plasma group compared with placebo. β-defensin-3 is a naturally occurring peptide associated with skin immune signaling and microbial balance.
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, LC-plasma was shown to:
✓ Support approximately 10-fold greater skin microbiome stability vs. placebo
✓ Support increased expression of skin barrier genes CLDN1 and CLDN12
✓ Support increased expression of antimicrobial peptide BD3
✓ Maintain overall microbial diversity throughout the study
✓ Demonstrate "inside-out" skin support through oral immune modulation
Why This Study Matters
This study contributes to research exploring how systemic immune signaling pathways may interact with skin physiology and microbiome balance. Maintaining skin microbiome stability and supporting structural components of the epidermal barrier are areas of growing interest in research related to overall skin wellness.*
Reference Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34683350/
Study 8 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803200/
The Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Lactococcus lactis Strain Plasma on Skin Microbiome and Skin Conditions in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Microorganisms. 2021;9(3):563. doi:10.3390/microorganisms9030563.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated changes in clinical skin parameters and microbiome composition in healthy adults following eight weeks of oral supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma (LC-plasma).
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
- Population: Healthy adults
- Intervention: Oral supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma (LC-plasma)
- Duration: 8 weeks
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Skin Condition
Participants in the LC-plasma group showed statistically significant improvements in several measures of skin condition compared with placebo, including parameters related to skin smoothness, skin texture, and overall skin appearance.
2. Skin Microbiome Composition
Supplementation with LC-plasma was associated with changes in skin microbiome composition consistent with greater microbiome balance. Overall microbial diversity remained stable while microbiome profiles shifted toward a more stable composition over the study period.
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, LC-plasma was shown to:
✓ Support statistically significant improvements in skin condition measures
✓ Support improvements in skin smoothness, texture, and overall appearance
✓ Support skin microbiome composition shifts toward greater balance
✓ Maintain overall skin microbial diversity throughout the study
Why This Study Matters
This study highlights how immune-related dietary ingredients may play a role in supporting overall skin wellness. Because skin condition is influenced by multiple internal and external factors, approaches that support immune balance and microbiome stability may complement topical skincare routines and broader lifestyle practices that promote healthy-looking skin.*
Reference Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803200/
Study 9 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30071871/
Efficacy of Heat-Killed Lactococcus lactis JCM 5805 on Immunity and Fatigue During Consecutive High-Intensity Exercise in Male Athletes: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Trial
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2018;15:39. doi:10.1186/s12970-018-0244-9.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated whether oral supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 could influence immune markers and fatigue-related outcomes in 51 male university athletes during a period of consecutive high-intensity exercise over 13 days.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial
- Participants: 51 male university athletes (25 placebo, 26 JCM5805)
- Condition: Consecutive high-intensity athletic training
- Daily dose: ~100 billion heat-killed cells of Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 (oral capsules)
- Duration: 13 days during ongoing high-intensity training
Key Findings (What the Study Showed)
1. Immune Cell Activation
- CD86 expression (pDC activation marker): Placebo 296 ± 70 vs. JCM5805 365 ± 115
- Approximately 23% higher pDC activation level in the JCM5805 group (p = 0.013)
2. Respiratory Symptom Days
- Placebo group: 56 cumulative symptom days; JCM5805 group: 39 cumulative symptom days
- 17 fewer reported symptom days across the study population (p = 0.028)
3. Cold-Like Symptom Days
- Placebo: 52 symptom-positive days; JCM5805: 36 symptom-positive days
- Approximately 31% fewer cold-like symptom days (p = 0.032)
4. Fatigue-Related Outcomes
- Placebo: 128 fatigue-reported days; JCM5805: 110 fatigue-reported days
- Approximately 14% fewer fatigue-reported days compared with placebo (p = 0.032)
5. Muscle Stress Markers
No significant differences were observed between groups in markers of muscle damage or physiological stress, indicating the observed differences were not related to changes in training intensity or muscle breakdown.
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the clinical outcomes, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Support approximately 23% higher pDC activation during intense exercise
✓ Support 17 fewer respiratory symptom days across the study population
✓ Support approximately 31% fewer cold-like symptom days
✓ Support approximately 14% fewer fatigue-reported days
✓ Demonstrate benefits independent of changes in muscle damage markers
Why This Study Matters
This study illustrates how nutritional ingredients that interact with immune pathways may help support immune balance and physical resilience during demanding conditions such as intense exercise. The convergent findings — reduced symptom days, reduced fatigue days, and increased pDC activation — provide both clinical and mechanistic evidence for JCM5805's role in supporting immune and physical resilience during elevated physiological stress.*
Reference Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30071871/
Study 10 Summary
Complete Study Information: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=84287
Safety Evaluation of Excessive Intake of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis JCM5805: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Trial
Food and Nutrition Sciences. 2018;9:403–419. doi:10.4236/fns.2018.94031.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial examined the safety of consuming heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 at intake levels substantially higher than those typically used in clinical studies — up to five times the typical clinical intake level — over a four-week period in healthy adults.
Study Design Highlights
- Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial
- Population: Healthy adults
- Dose tested: Up to 5× the typical clinical intake level of heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805
- Form: Oral capsules
- Duration: 4 weeks
Key Safety Findings
- No serious adverse events were reported in the JCM5805 group
- Overall frequency of adverse events was similar between JCM5805 and placebo groups
- No clinically meaningful changes in hematology, blood biochemistry, liver function, kidney function, or urinalysis
- No significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, or body temperature
- No evidence of excessive immune activation or inflammatory responses
Benefits of Immuse® Demonstrated by This Study
Based directly on the safety trial findings, Immuse® (JCM5805) was shown to:
✓ Be well tolerated at doses up to 5× the typical clinical intake level
✓ Produce no clinically significant laboratory abnormalities
✓ Show no immune-related safety concerns even at high intake
✓ Demonstrate a favorable safety profile supporting its use for routine daily supplementation
Why This Study Matters
This study provides additional evidence regarding the tolerability of this postbiotic ingredient when consumed at intake levels substantially higher than those typically used in clinical research. Such findings contribute to the broader safety assessment of ingredients intended for routine use in dietary supplements and functional foods, and reinforce confidence in JCM5805 as a safe ingredient for daily immune support.*
Reference Link: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=84287
Big-Picture Integration with Other Studies
- Study 1: Daily intake of yogurt containing heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 for four weeks was associated with activation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells and increased interferon-related immune signaling, along with changes in reported upper respiratory symptom measures in individuals with lower baseline immune activity.
- Study 2: This mechanistic study demonstrated that interferon-primed human dendritic cells exhibit enhanced antiviral signaling responses, including increased interferon production and activation of antiviral gene pathways, highlighting the role of immune readiness in host defense mechanisms.
- Study 3: In a 12-week clinical study, daily supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 was associated with changes in reported throat and cough symptoms and increases in immune markers including pDC activity, IFN-α signaling, HLA-DR expression, and VIPERIN gene activation.
- Study 4: Daily intake of heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 for 10 weeks was associated with changes in the number of days participants reported upper respiratory symptoms, along with increased interferon-related gene expression in healthy adults.
- Study 5: In a community observational study, schoolchildren who consumed yogurt containing JCM5805 several times per week showed approximately 66% lower reported influenza incidence compared with a neighboring control town during the same season.
- Study 6: In a four-week human study, supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 was associated with increased salivary IgA levels, enhanced neutrophil phagocytic activity, and increased expression of antiviral genes IRF7, MX1, and OAS1 in healthy adults.
- Study 7: In an eight-week randomized trial, supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma was associated with approximately 10-fold greater skin microbiome stability and increased expression of genes related to skin barrier structure (CLDN1, CLDN12) and antimicrobial peptides (BD3).
- Study 8: In another eight-week clinical study, supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma was associated with improvements in skin condition measures and changes in skin microbiome composition consistent with greater microbial balance.
- Study 9: In athletes undergoing high-intensity exercise, daily supplementation with heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 was associated with approximately 23% higher pDC activation, 31% fewer cold-like symptom days, and 14% fewer fatigue-reported days compared with placebo.
- Study 10: Clinical safety studies have reported that daily intake of heat-killed Lactococcus lactis JCM5805 at doses up to five times the commonly studied amount was well tolerated with no clinically meaningful safety concerns.
Immuse® Ingredient Summary & Real-World Relevance
Immuse® is a postbiotic ingredient derived from heat-killed Lactococcus lactis strain plasma (JCM5805) that has been extensively studied for its interaction with plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), immune cells involved in coordinating interferon signaling and immune communication. Human and mechanistic research suggests that supplementation with JCM5805 is associated with changes in immune biomarkers such as interferon signaling, pDC activity, salivary IgA levels, and gene pathways related to innate immune responses. Additional studies have explored its potential influence on skin barrier gene expression, microbiome balance, and immune responses during periods of physical stress such as intense exercise. Because Immuse® consists of heat-killed bacterial cells rather than live organisms, it offers a stable postbiotic approach to supporting normal immune system function, and clinical research has reported good tolerability even at intake levels several times higher than the commonly studied dose. Together, this body of research positions Immuse® as a well-studied ingredient designed to support immune readiness and overall immune health as part of a balanced lifestyle.*
Ingredient Manufacturer Link: https://immusehealth.com/
Immuse® is a clinically studied ingredient used in the following Silver Fern™ Brand product:
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.