Exploratory In Vitro Evaluation of Maternal-Infant Bifidobacterium Strains for Microbiota Modulation in a Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Context

Maria Esteban-Torres ^1,2, Isabel Blanco ¹, Andrea Asensio-Grau ²

⁰Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, Spanish National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain.

Microorganisms +

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November 27, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Novel Bifidobacterium strains show promise as targeted probiotics for children with cystic fibrosis (CF). These probiotics can survive digestion and modulate gut microbiota, but effects vary by strain and individual patient responses.

Area Of Science

Microbiology
Gastroenterology
Pediatric Health

Background

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is linked to gut dysbiosis.
Targeted probiotics may help manage CF-associated gut issues.

Purpose Of The Study

Evaluate novel Bifidobacterium isolates for probiotic potential in pediatric CF patients.
Assess in vitro survival, mucin adhesion, carbohydrate fermentation, and microbiota modulation.

Main Methods

In vitro assessment of five Bifidobacterium strains following FAO/WHO guidelines.
Simulated gastrointestinal digestion and mucin adhesion assays.
In vitro colonic fermentation with CF patient fecal inocula, analyzed by qPCR and GC-MS.

Main Results

Three strains (IATA01, IATA35, IATA05) survived simulated digestion.
Strain IATA01 showed highest mucin adhesion but limited fermentation.
All strains increased Bifidobacterium levels; effects on pathogenic and beneficial bacteria varied by strain and inoculum.

Conclusions

Bifidobacterium strains exhibit strain-specific effects on gut microbiota modulation in a pediatric CF context.
Probiotic efficacy is influenced by the individual's baseline microbiota composition.
Novel Bifidobacterium isolates warrant further investigation as targeted CF probiotics.

Keywords:

Bifidobacterium SCFAs cystic fibrosis gut microbiota in vitro fermentation probiotics