The present invention generally relates to the field of probiotic bacteria. In particular, the present invention conceras non-replicating probiotics, such as the genus Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium or combinations thereof, for example Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium breve or combinations thereof, and applications of these bacteria. One embodiment of the present invention relates to non-replicating probiotics and their use to prepare a composition to treat or prevent disorders related to a compromised immune defense. A method to increase the effectiveness of probiotics to treat or prevent immune disorders is described.
