BACKGROUND
Probiotics, which are live microorganisms known to promote gut health, have attracted significant attention for their ability to positively impact the gut microbiome. By improving digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function, these beneficial bacteria contribute to overall health. Recent studies have also suggested that probiotics may have effects beyond gut health, potentially influencing stress reduction, longevity, and general well-being.
One area of promising research involves the use of Caenorhabditis elegans, a well-established model organism, to investigate the effects of probiotics. C.elegans presents a unique platform due to its short lifespan, simple genetics, and ease of colonization with different bacterial species, making it an ideal system for studying how probiotics might affect aging, stress resistance, and other biological processes. For example, studies on the probiotic strains Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides, isolated from organic basil, have demonstrated that these bacteria can enhance stress resistance and prolong the lifespan of C.elegans. These findings not only offer valuable insights into the potential health benefits of probiotics but also underscore the possibility of developing new probiotic-based technologies to promote longevity and well-being in humans.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
Researchers at OSU have identified the potential of Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides strains, derived from organic basil, in enhancing gut health. Through their experiments using C. elegans as a model organism, they observed that incorporating these probiotics into diets can alleviate stress, enhance resistance to diseases, and prolong lifespan. These findings indicate the possibility of developing targeted probiotic supplements aimed at improving gut health and overall wellness. This approach, integrating traditional healthspan assessments with innovative molecular biology techniques, lays a solid scientific groundwork for the creation of personalized probiotic treatments.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Development of a probiotic supplement for animal or human consumption.
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Potential to enhance the microbiome of individuals or animals as a probiotic through supplementation
- This organism could prove superior to the current probiotic strains.
STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
CONTACT: Please contact the Office of Technology Commercialization (InnovationPortal@okstate.edu) for more information.