Thailand medical study identifies P. pentosaceus as a potential antimicrobial probiotic with cholesterol-reducing properties

Thailand Medical: Researchers from Prince of Songkla University-Thailand have identified a promising probiotic candidate in the form of Pediococcus pentosaceus ENM104. This study,delves into the unique capabilities of this bacterium, which could revolutionize the approach to cholesterol management and antimicrobial treatments. This Thailand Medical news report explores the significant findings from the research, which highlight the potential of P. pentosaceus as a functional probiotic with applications in both the pharmaceutical and food industries.


Thailand medical study identifies P. pentosaceus as a potential antimicrobial probiotic with
cholesterol-reducing properties

What is Pediococcus pentosaceus?
Pediococcus pentosaceus is a type of lactic acid bacteria commonly found in fermented foods. Known for its spherical shape and ability to thrive in anaerobic (oxygen-free) environments, this bacterium has gained attention for its beneficial properties. It has been found in various environments, including fermented foods, plants, and animal products. However, its most intriguing characteristic is its potential to produce antimicrobial compounds, particularly bacteriocins, which are proteins capable of inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
 
Key Findings: Antimicrobial and Cholesterol-Reducing Properties
The researchers focused on Pediococcus pentosaceus ENM104, a strain isolated from fermented foods. This strain demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against several pathogenic bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii. These bacteria are known for their resistance to multiple drugs, making the discovery of new antimicrobial agents crucial.
 
The study found that the antimicrobial activity of ENM104 increased over time, suggesting its potential as a natural preservative in the food industry and as an alternative treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections.
 
In addition to its antimicrobial properties, P. pentosaceus ENM104 also showed promise in reducing cholesterol levels. The bacterium was found to produce bile salt hydrolase (BSH), an enzyme that plays a critical role in cholesterol metabolism. BSH activity is crucial for the survival and colonization of bacteria in the intestines, where it helps break down bile salts. This process is directly linked to the reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood, making P. pentosaceus ENM104 a potential candidate for managing hypercholesterolemia.
 
The Genomic Insights
The study reveals that the genome of P. pentosaceus ENM104 is relatively small but packed with genes that contribute to its probiotic potential. The genome consists of a circular chromosome of 1.73 Mbp and a smaller plasmid of 71.8 Kbp. These genetic components harbor several genes responsible for stress resistance, vitamin biosynthesis, immunomodulation, and bacteriocin production.
 
Notably, the genome analysis identified genes involved in the production of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a compound known for its role in reducing a nxiety and promoting relaxation. Although the strain produces GABA in smaller quantities compared to other probiotic strains, its ability to do so adds to its potential health benefits.
 
Antimicrobial Activity and Safety Profile
One of the standout features of P. pentosaceus ENM104 is its ability to produce bacteriocins, particularly penocin_A, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of various pathogens, including Listeria monocytogenes. The bacteriocins produced by ENM104 are active under acidic conditions, making them effective in environments like the human stomach and fermented foods.
 
Importantly, the study confirmed that P. pentosaceus ENM104 does not carry any antibiotic resistance genes or virulence factors, which are often concerns when considering bacteria for probiotic use. This safety profile, combined with its beneficial properties, makes ENM104 a strong candidate for further development as a probiotic.
 
The study also delved into the safety profile of P. pentosaceus ENM104 as a probiotic. The researchers found no evidence of antibiotic resistance or virulence factors in the strain's genome, making it a safe candidate for use in commercial probiotic products. Additionally, the strain was found to be tolerant to various stress conditions that mimic the gastrointestinal environment, further supporting its potential as a probiotic.
 
Among the probiotic traits identified were genes associated with stress resistance, vitamin biosynthesis, and immunomodulation. For example, genes such as dnaK and dnaJ, which help the bacterium survive under heat stress, were present in the genome. Similarly, genes involved in bile tolerance, like ppaC, were also identified, indicating the strain's ability to survive in the harsh conditions of the digestive system.
 
Comparative Analysis with Other Strains
To better understand the unique capabilities of ENM104, the researchers conducted a comparative genomic analysis with other Pediococcus strains. This analysis revealed that while ENM104 shares many core genes with other strains, it also possesses unique genes that contribute to its distinct probiotic properties. These genes are likely the result of the bacterium’s adaptation to various environmental niches, such as fermented foods and the human gut.
 
The study also highlighted the presence of plasmids in many Pediococcus strains, including ENM104. These plasmids often carry genes that confer advantageous traits, such as resistance to environmental stresses and the ability to produce antimicrobial compounds. The genetic diversity observed in the study underscores the adaptability of Pediococcus strains and their potential applications in different industries.
 
Potential Applications and Future Research
The findings from this study open up several avenues for the application of P. pentosaceus ENM104. Its cholesterol-lowering and antimicrobial properties make it a promising candidate for use in functional foods and dietary supplements aimed at improving heart health and preventing infections. Additionally, its ability to produce GABA suggests potential applications in products designed to promote mental well-being.
 
Future research should focus on clinical trials to assess the efficacy of P. pentosaceus ENM104 in humans. Understanding how this bacterium interacts with the human microbiome and its long-term effects on health will be crucial in determining its viability as a probiotic. Moreover, exploring the potential of ENM104 in the food industry, particularly as a natural preservative, could lead to safer and more sustainable food production methods.
 
Conclusion
The discovery of Pediococcus pentosaceus ENM104 and its unique probiotic properties marks a significant step forward in the search for natural solutions to health problems. With its ability to reduce cholesterol levels, inhibit harmful bacteria, and produce beneficial compounds like GABA, ENM104 has the potential to become a valuable addition to the growing list of probiotics used in both the food and pharmaceutical industries. Future research will be crucial to further explore its applications, particularly in clinical settings, to fully realize its benefits.
 
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Antibiotics.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6382/13/9/813
 
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