In conclusion, we have identified five probiotic strains displaying
a clear inhibitory activity against C. difficile and C. perfringens as
well as growth characteristics suitable for probiotic use. The
mechanism of inhibition is pH-dependent but two strains produce
unknown antibiotics or bacteriocins inhibiting C. perfringens
growth in a pH-independent manner. These probiotics should be
evaluated by future in vivo animal trials for their potential use as
prophylactic or therapeutic measures against clostridial enteric
disease in animals.