Laboratory handling practice for faecal microbiota transplantation.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a therapeutic procedure involving the transfer of gut microbes from a healthy donor to a recipient.
• Alterations in gut microbiota are linked to various diseases, making FMT a promising treatment option.
• Standardized laboratory protocols for FMT are lacking, hindering widespread adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the laboratory workflow for preparing faecal suspensions for FMT.
• To compare two methods for faecal suspension preparation: magnet plate emulsion (MPE) and Seward Stomacher Emulsion (SSE).
• To provide practical guidance for establishing and optimizing FMT laboratory procedures.

Main Methods:

• Faecal suspensions were prepared from 20 stool samples from 10 donors using MPE and SSE protocols.
• Preparation time, ease of use, and microbial counts (aerobic and anaerobic) were evaluated.
• Bacterial counts in frozen aliquots were monitored post-defrosting at various time points.

Main Results:

• SSE preparation was faster and more practical than MPE.
• Both methods yielded comparable microbial loads, with SSE showing a slight advantage for anaerobic bacteria.
• Frozen faecal suspensions maintained bacterial viability after thawing.

Conclusions:

• SSE is a suitable and efficient method for preparing faecal suspensions for FMT, particularly for stool banking.
• Both MPE and SSE preserve the viability of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
• The described laboratory procedures ensure safety for laboratory personnel involved in FMT preparation.