Bioactive Compositions that Boost Probiotic Establishment
VALUE PROPOSITION
This Teagasc development, involves a novel application of bovine colostrum, milk and whey rich in immunoglobulins, as a means of boosting probiotic bacteria’s beneficial effect, by significantly increasing their level of attachment to intestinal cells. This capability would complement and add value to a company’s probiotic range/bio-bank and may be applicable to a wide range of markets including infant formula, infant and toddler supplements & health and wellness
PROBLEM ADDRESSED
Species such as bifidobacteria are abundant in the gut of breast-fed infants and are important for inhibiting the growth of pathogenic organisms, improving the barrier function in the gut, and promoting proper immunological and inflammatory responses. In order to exert a beneficial effect, these bacteria must colonize the gut in sufficient numbers. The first step in colonization is attachment to the intestinal surface. There is currently an absence of available products developed to aid or increase the attachment/colonization of probiotic strains to the intestinal cells, which this technology aims to address.
OPPORTUNITY
Teagasc is interested in partnering with companies in the infant/toddler probiotics/supplements industry to commercialise this technology, with a view to adding value to their probiotic range. There is also opportunity to collaborate with dairy waste stream providers in evaluating various sources of bioactivity.
ADVANTAGES
Up to 40 fold increase in the attachment of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli bacteria to intestinal wall compared to non-treated cells (see diagram). Demonstrated effect on the most common probiotic species and on strains in the lucrative infant formula and supplements markets. Can add value to any current probiotic bio-banks, as potential booster for probiotic efficacy
DEVELOPMENT STAGE
Specific probiotics have been examined for increased attachment to intestinal cells using aTeagasc in vitro model with great success. Research is underway evaluating various dairy waste streams as potential sources of bioactivity
FUNDING
-200x109.png)
CONTACT
Name - Dr. Miriam Walsh
Phone - +353 76 111 1277,
Email - miriam.walsh@teagasc.ie
.png)