L. Reuteri DSM 17648 exhibits glycoproteins on its surface which recognise and bind to glycoproteins exhibited from specific bacteria that reside in the stomach. These structures are unique to this strain of L. reuteri.
Other strains of L. reuteri and probiotics are usually intended to reach the gut where they can multiply and colonise in order to promote healthy gut bacteria. However, L. Reuteri DSM 17648 is an inactivated (i.e. dead) strain of L. reuteri which is not intended to colonise in the gut. Instead, it is intended to bind to specific gut bacteria, after which, L. Reuteri DSM 17648 and the gut bacteria bound to it will travel through the digestive tract where they will be eliminated through natural bowel movements.
