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Prebiotic properties of epilactose
J Watanabe1, M Nishimukai, H Taguchi
1Creative Research Initiative Sousei, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0021, Japan. nabej@affrc.go.jp
Journal of Dairy Science
|November 29, 2008
Summary
Epilactose, derived from lactose, acts as a promising prebiotic. It positively influences gut microbiota, inhibits harmful bile acid conversion, and does not raise plasma glucose levels.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cellobiose 2-epimerase converts lactose to epilactose.
- Epilactose exhibits potential prebiotic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biological effects of epilactose on intestinal microbiota.
- To assess epilactose's impact on bile acid metabolism and plasma glucose levels.
- To evaluate epilactose as a prebiotic agent.
Main Methods:
- Animal testing using Wistar-ST rats and ddY mice.
- Dietary supplementation with epilactose or fructooligosaccharide.
- Analysis of cecal contents, pH, and microbial populations (16S rRNA gene sequencing).
- Monitoring of bile acid conversion and plasma glucose concentrations.
Main Results:
- Epilactose increased cecal wall weight and contents, and decreased cecal pH.
- Epilactose supplementation promoted beneficial bacteria like Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria.
- Epilactose inhibited the conversion of primary to secondary bile acids.
- Epilactose did not elevate plasma glucose levels in mice.
Conclusions:
- Epilactose demonstrates significant prebiotic potential.
- Epilactose positively modulates gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism.
- Epilactose is a safe and effective functional ingredient for food applications.
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