''This is the first demonstration that virulence of human pathogenic bacteria can be mitigated by molecules secreted in probiotic milk products, such as yogurt or kefir,'' said BGU Prof. Jelinek. ''Our research illuminates the mechanism by which milk fermented probiotics can protect against pathogenic infections and aid the immune system. We look forward to administering these drug candidates to patients who are experiencing a cytokine storm due to COVID-19 infection, or people suffering from acute inflammatory bowel pathologies, such as Crohn's disease.''