Biofilm balance

Biofilm Balance (formerly enzyme mix 2): NAC, lactoferrin and enzymes for biofilm degradation and intestinal remediation in dogs and cats

Chronic intestinal complaints, recurring skin problems, ear infections and low-grade inflammation often have one common underlying factor in dogs and cats: the pathogenic biofilm. A biofilm is a protective matrix of polysaccharides, proteins and extracellular DNA that allows bacteria, yeasts and parasites to attach themselves to the intestinal wall and effectively shield themselves from the immune system. As long as this biofilm is intact, complaints will continue to recur regardless of other interventions.

Biofilm Balance combines three components, each of which targets a different layer of the biofilm structure. NAC (N-acetylcysteine) breaks the extracellular biofilm matrix via degradation of disulfide bridges in the protein component, causing the loss of the structural integrity of the biofilm. At the same time, NAC is a glutathione precursor that restores the antioxidant and immune capacity of the liver and intestinal wall.

Lactoferrin adds a second and mechanistically complementary biofilm approach. Through iron sequestration, lactoferrin deprives pathogenic microorganisms of an essential growth factor, which directly inhibits biofilm formation. In addition, lactoferricin, the active peptide of lactoferrin, disrupts the membrane integrity of gram-negative bacteria and certain yeasts via direct binding to lipopolysaccharide. Recent studies show that lactoferrin both inhibits biofilm formation and destabilizes existing biofilms, independent of its bactericidal activity. Lactoferrin simultaneously stimulates beneficial commensal bacteria, which makes it the only component in this product with an active differentiation between pathogenic and commensal.

Amylase, protease, and lipase are digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, respectively, in the biofilm matrix. The extracellular matrix of biofilm consists of these three macromolecular classes; Targeted enzymatic degradation makes the matrix progressively more porous and accessible to the other components and the immune system.

Biofilm Balance is intended as part of an integral gut protocol. Biofilm breakdown releases toxins that can cause liver load, a detox reaction and a Herxheimer reaction. The product is therefore always combined with supportive agents for the liver, intestine and immune system, as offered in the NGD Care Gut Protocol.

Would you like to read more about the scientific background of biofilm, the role of lactoferrin and enzymes and its application in dogs and cats? Read the extensive background piece: Biofilm Balance: the science behind biofilm degradation in the gut explained.