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β-Carotene Biosynthesis in Probiotic Bacteria.
Jennifer K Miller1, M Travis Harrison2, Annalisa D'Andrea2
1Biosciences Division, SRI International, Harrisonburg, VA, 22802, USA.
Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins
|January 20, 2016
Summary
Engineered probiotic bacteria can produce beta-carotene in the gut, potentially preventing childhood vitamin A deficiency and reducing diarrheal diseases. This approach may offer a novel therapy for malnourished children.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Nutritional Science
- Immunology
Background:
- Pediatric vitamin A deficiency is a significant cause of severe diarrheal diseases.
- Current interventions struggle to reach malnourished children effectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a probiotic bacterium for in-situ production of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A.
- To assess the potential of this engineered probiotic as a therapeutic intervention for vitamin A deficiency and diarrheal diseases.
Main Methods:
- Generation of a beta-carotene-producing variant of Escherichia coli strain Nissle 1917 (EcN-BETA).
- Evaluation of beta-carotene production under anaerobic conditions.
- Assessment of post-lyophilization viability and beta-carotene production.
- In vitro analysis of EcN-BETA's effect on murine dendritic cell activation.
Main Results:
- EcN-BETA successfully produced beta-carotene in conditions mimicking the gut environment.
- The strain maintained beta-carotene production after lyophilization, indicating potential for dry formulation.
- EcN-BETA demonstrated immunostimulatory capacity by activating murine dendritic cells.
- Beta-carotene production did not appear to impair the immunostimulatory function of the probiotic.
Conclusions:
- Engineered Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN-BETA) can produce beta-carotene in the gut.
- This probiotic offers a promising strategy for improving vitamin A status and mucosal immunity in children.
- Further development could lead to innovative, life-saving therapies for developing nations.
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