[Binding of benzo(a)pyrene by Lactobacilli strains]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Science
• Toxicology

Context:

• Benzo(a)pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and a known environmental pollutant.
• Lactobacillus species are probiotics with potential applications in bioremediation.
• Understanding the binding capacity of specific bacterial strains to pollutants is crucial for developing effective detoxification strategies.

Purpose:

• To investigate the benzo(a)pyrene binding capabilities of Lactobacillus plantarum 121 and Lactobacillus pentosus ML32.
• To assess the influence of various physical and chemical factors on the binding efficiency of these bacterial strains.

Summary:

• Lactobacillus plantarum 121 and Lactobacillus pentosus ML32 demonstrated significant benzo(a)pyrene binding, with percentages of 65.9% and 64.9%, respectively.
• Binding efficiency was influenced by incubation time, temperature, cell viability, pH, and the presence of divalent cations (Ca2+, Mg2+).
• Gastrointestinal simulation revealed that pH and bile salt concentrations were key factors, while enzymatic treatments and benzene washing had varying effects on binding.

Impact:

• These findings suggest that Lactobacillus plantarum 121 and Lactobacillus pentosus ML32 possess potential for the bioremediation of benzo(a)pyrene.
• The study provides insights into optimizing conditions for bacterial-based PAH detoxification.
• Further research could explore in vivo applications for these probiotic strains in reducing benzo(a)pyrene exposure.