Abstract

A newly discovered strain of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18 (CCTCC No: M 20231524), demonstrates significant potential in alleviating constipation and regulating the gut microbiota. This strain exhibits excellent survival in acidic and bile environments, broad-spectrum antibacterial properties, and significant efficacy in enhancing bowel movements. This article details the isolation, characteristics, and potential applications of Lp18 in medical and health food products.

Keywords: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18, constipation, gut microbiota, probiotics, antibacterial properties

Introduction

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, often leading to significant discomfort and health complications. Probiotics have been identified as a promising solution for gastrointestinal issues due to their ability to balance gut microbiota and improve digestive health. This study introduces a novel probiotic strain, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18, and explores its efficacy in alleviating constipation and its potential applications.

Materials and Methods

-  Strain Isolation and Identification

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18 was isolated from a fermented food source. The strain was identified using molecular techniques and deposited at the China Center for Type Culture Collection (CCTCC) under the accession number M 20231524.

-  In Vitro Analysis

Acid and Bile Tolerance

Lp18's tolerance to acidic conditions (pH 2.5) and bile salts (0.3% oxgall) was evaluated to determine its potential survival in the gastrointestinal tract.

Antibacterial Activity

The antibacterial activity of Lp18 was tested against common pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, and Staphylococcus aureus, using agar well diffusion assays.

- In Vivo Analysis

Animal Model for Constipation

An animal model using mice was established to evaluate the effects of Lp18 on constipation. Mice were administered Lp18, and parameters such as defecation frequency, stool water content, and small intestinal transit rate were measured.

Results

-  Acid and Bile Tolerance

Lp18 demonstrated a survival rate of 99.08% in acidic conditions and maintained viability in the presence of bile salts, indicating strong resilience in the gastrointestinal environment.

-  Antibacterial Activity

The strain exhibited significant inhibitory effects against all tested pathogens, with inhibition zones indicating broad-spectrum antibacterial properties.

- Alleviation of Constipation

In the animal model, Lp18 significantly increased defecation frequency, stool water content, and small intestinal transit rate compared to the control group. These results suggest that Lp18 effectively alleviates symptoms of constipation.

Discussion

The findings of this study highlight the potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18 as a probiotic supplement for improving gut health and relieving constipation. Its robust survival in harsh gastrointestinal conditions and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity make it an ideal candidate for further development in medical and health food products.

-  Potential Applications

Lp18 can be utilized in various forms, including fermented beverages, gummies, and formulated milk powders, to provide a natural and effective solution for digestive health issues. Its antibacterial properties also suggest potential use in products aimed at preventing gastrointestinal infections.

Conclusion

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lp18 is a promising probiotic strain with significant benefits for gut health, particularly in alleviating constipation. Further research and development could lead to the creation of innovative health products that leverage the unique properties of Lp18.

References

1. Microbial Characteristics and Applications of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. Microbial Biotechnology, 2023.

2. Probiotics and Gut Health: Mechanisms and Applications. Journal of Gastrointestinal Microbiology, 2022.

3. Advances in Probiotic Research and Applications. International Journal of Probiotics and Prebiotics, 2021.