Probiotic lactic acid bacteria detoxify N-nitrosodimethylamine

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Toxicology
• Food Science

Background:

• Humans encounter N-nitroso compounds (NOCs) from environmental and endogenous sources.
• N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a primary nitrosamine in food and from gut microbiota, is a carcinogen affecting the stomach, kidney, and colon.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of four probiotic Lactobacillus strains on NDMA concentration and genotoxicity.
• To assess the effect of NDMA on the growth and survival of probiotic strains.

Main Methods:

• NDMA levels were quantified using HPLC and GC-TEA in bacterial supernatants under various culture conditions.
• NDMA genotoxicity was evaluated using the comet assay.
• Probiotic strain viability was tested against different NDMA concentrations.

Main Results:

• Probiotic bacteria reduced NDMA concentration by up to 50%, influenced by strain, culture conditions, pH, and incubation time.
• Lb. brevis 0945 demonstrated the most significant reduction in NDMA concentration and genotoxicity.
• Tested NDMA concentrations did not adversely affect the growth or survival of the probiotic strains.

Conclusions:

• Certain probiotic Lactobacillus strains effectively reduce NDMA levels and associated genotoxicity.
• Lb. brevis 0945 shows particular promise in mitigating NDMA exposure.
• Probiotics can be considered as a strategy to manage NDMA risks without compromising their own viability.