Characterization and Identification of Probiotic Features in Lacticaseibacillus Paracasei Using a Comparative Genomic...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Genomics
• Probiotics

Background:

• Lacticaseibacillus paracasei is widely utilized for its health benefits in food and agriculture.
• This species, found in diverse habitats, exhibits varied carbohydrate metabolism and includes strains used as probiotics.
• Two subspecies, L. paracasei subsp. paracasei and L. paracasei subsp. tolerans, are recognized based on acid production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comparative genomic analysis of 181 Lacticaseibacillus paracasei genomes.
• To identify genomic differences at the subspecies level.
• To reveal adaptive and probiotic features, with a focus on inulin consumption.

Main Methods:

• Comparative genomic analysis of 181 Lacticaseibacillus paracasei genomes.
• Phylogenetic tree construction using core-genome orthologous genes.
• Analysis of gene clusters related to inulin consumption.

Main Results:

• Phylogenetic analysis did not clearly distinguish between L. paracasei subspecies.
• Genomic distance generally correlated with isolation origin, indicating habitat adaptation.
• Favorable probiotic characteristics were observed, including low frequency of undesirable genes and frequent bacteriocin production.
• The inulin gene cluster showed variations but maintained a core set of essential genes.

Conclusions:

• Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subspecies classification requires further investigation, particularly refining outgroup selection criteria.
• The species exhibits significant adaptation to its environment and possesses desirable traits for probiotic applications.
• Genomic insights support the use of L. paracasei as a probiotic, especially regarding its inulin metabolism.