Unravelling the key factors for the dominance of Leuconostoc starters during kimchi fermentation

Recent studies aim to prevent kimchi spoilage and enhance the sensory and nutritional qualities using lactic acid bacteria, particularly Leuconostoc species, as kimchi starters. However, the factors enabling the successful adaptation and predominance of Leuconostoc species remain unclear. This study investigates the factors that contribute to the successful adaptation of Leuconostoc starter strains WiKim32, WiKim33, WiKim0121 and CBA3628 during kimchi fermentation using a comprehensive multi-omics approach. Our findings reveal that ATP-dependent molecular chaperones, which respond to cold and acidic kimchi environments, play crucial roles in successfully adapting Leuconostoc starter strains. Moreover, genes involved in carbohydrate metabolic pathways enhance ATP production, thereby supporting chaperone activity and bacterial growth. This study highlights the practical use of Leuconostoc starter strains WiKim32, WiKim33 and WiKim0121 and identifies essential factors for their successful adaptation and predominance during kimchi fermentation.