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Next-generation probiotics and prebiotics – an efficient strategy for balancing the human microbiota

Research of the human gut microbiome has confirmed the presence of phylogenetically diverse bacterial species with health-promoting effects and potential of faecal microbiota transplantation as long-term engraftment of the patients gut microbiota. Microbiota present on mucosal and skin surfaces also impacting the interactions along the gut-liver-brain axis. According to the results of our research, selected and functionally characterized autochthonous strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), isolated either from the breast milk microbiota or artisanal fermented food, have a huge potential as a next-generation of probiotics [1]. They produce specific macromolecules such as surface S-layer proteins (Slps), bacteriocins, exopolysaccharides (EPS) and proteolytic enzymes, which are associated with their probiotic activities. Slps and EPS contribute to the stress-resistant properties of the producer cells during biotechnological production by freeze-drying as well as during gastrointestinal transit, and adherence in the colon, with potential immunomodulatory activity. Additionally, EPS are also prebiotic substrates for the gut microbiota – producers of short-chain fatty acids and lactate, metabolites with antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity, energy supply for the enterocytes, and the modulation of cholesterol and lipid metabolism. Bacteriocins, Slps and EPS promote competitive exclusion of pathogens, whereas bacteriocins and biopeptides-released upon the proteolytic activity, display antimicrobial activities. Biopeptides have also shown anti-inflammatory, ACE-inhibitory and antioxidant activities. Selected LAB strains have promising applications, ranging from the design of future functional food, food supplements or live biotherapeutic products. The impact of next-generation probiotics and prebiotics on human microbiota balance will be further defined through an advanced meta-omics approach and data analysis by new bioinformatics algorithms and analysis tools.

gut microbiome ; lactic acid bacteria ; S-layer proteins ; bacteriocins ; exopolysaccharides

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