A genome guided evaluation of the Lab4 probiotic consortium

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Probiotics

Background:

• The Lab4 probiotic consortium comprises four bacterial strains: Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis CUL34, Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL20, Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL60, and Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL21.
• Understanding the genomic basis of probiotic functionality and safety is crucial for their application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform probiogenomic analyses of the Lab4 probiotic consortium.
• To assess the genomic stability and safety of the Lab4 consortium through in vitro and in vivo studies.

Main Methods:

• Draft genome sequences were deposited in Genbank.
• Probiogenomic analyses were conducted to identify genes related to bile and acid tolerance, enterocyte adherence, and antibiotic susceptibility.
• Genomic stability was predicted for antibiotic resistance and virulence genes.
• Acute and repeat dose tolerability studies were performed in Wistar rats.

Main Results:

• Genome sequencing confirmed existing taxonomies and identified putative functional genes.
• Genomic stability predictions indicated no significant risk of acquiring antibiotic resistance or virulence genes.
• Tolerability studies in rats showed no mortality or toxicity, even at high doses.
• Increased fecal Lab4 counts in supplemented rats suggested gastrointestinal survival and potential impact on gut microbiota.

Conclusions:

• The study provides comprehensive genomic and safety data supporting the probiotic functionality of the Lab4 consortium.
• The findings support the safe use of the Lab4 probiotic consortium in vivo.