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Glycomacropeptide Safety and Its Effect on Gut Microbiota in Patients with Phenylketonuria: A Pilot Study
Chiara Montanari1, Camilla Ceccarani2, Antonio Corsello1
1Department of Pediatrics, Vittore Buzzi Children's Hospital, University of Milan, 20154 Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
Glycomacropeptide (GMP) represents a good alternative protein source in Phenylketonuria (PKU). In a mouse model, it has been suggested to exert a prebiotic role on beneficial gut bacteria. In this study, we performed the 16S rRNA sequencing to evaluate the effect of 6 months of GMP supplementation on the gut microbiota of nine PKU patients, comparing their bacterial composition and clinical parameters before and after the intervention. GMP seems to be safe from both the microbiological and the clinical point of view. Indeed, we did not observe dramatic changes in the gut microbiota but a specific prebiotic effect on the butyrate-producer Agathobacter spp. and, to a lesser extent, of Subdoligranulum. Clinically, GMP intake did not show a significant impact on both metabolic control, as phenylalanine values were kept below the age target and nutritional parameters. On the other hand, an amelioration of calcium phosphate homeostasis was observed, with an increase in plasmatic vitamin D and a decrease in alkaline phosphatase. Our results suggest GMP as a safe alternative in the PKU diet and its possible prebiotic role on specific taxa without causing dramatic changes in the commensal microbiota.
Insights
Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a safe protein for Phenylketonuria (PKU) diets. It may act as a prebiotic, boosting beneficial gut bacteria like Agathobacter without major microbiota shifts.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Nutrition Science
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) requires strict dietary management, often involving specialized protein sources.
- Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a potential alternative protein for PKU patients.
- Previous research in mouse models suggested a prebiotic effect of GMP on gut bacteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Glycomacropeptide (GMP) supplementation in Phenylketonuria (PKU) patients.
- To assess the impact of GMP on gut microbiota composition and clinical parameters over six months.
- To investigate the potential prebiotic effects of GMP on specific gut bacterial taxa.
Main Methods:
- 16S rRNA sequencing was used to analyze gut microbiota composition before and after GMP intervention.
- Nine PKU patients participated in the 6-month study.
- Clinical parameters, including metabolic control, nutritional status, and mineral homeostasis, were monitored.
Main Results:
- GMP supplementation was found to be safe, with no significant adverse microbiological or clinical effects.
- No dramatic alterations in overall gut microbiota composition were observed.
- A specific prebiotic effect was noted, with an increase in butyrate-producing bacteria, particularly Agathobacter spp.
- Clinical outcomes showed stable metabolic control and nutritional parameters.
- Improvements in calcium phosphate homeostasis were observed, including increased plasma vitamin D and decreased alkaline phosphatase.
Conclusions:
- Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a safe and viable protein alternative for individuals with Phenylketonuria (PKU).
- GMP demonstrates a potential prebiotic role, selectively promoting beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria.
- The intervention did not cause significant dysbiosis, suggesting a favorable safety profile for gut health in PKU management.
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