Molecular genetics for probiotic engineering: dissecting lactic acid bacteria. Issue 3 (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Suissa, Ronit; Oved, Rela; Jankelowitz, Gavi; Turjeman, Sondra; Koren, Omry; Kolodkin-Gal, Ilana
• Is Part Of: Trends in microbiology. Volume 30:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 293
• Page End: 306
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: probiotics -- genetics -- adhesion -- antibiotics -- nutrition -- lactobacillaceae; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Virulence (Microbiology) -- Periodicals; Infection -- Periodicals; Microbiology -- Periodicals; Virulence -- Periodicals; Microbiologie -- Périodiques; Infection -- Périodiques; Virulence (Microbiologie) -- Périodiques; Infection; Microbiology; Virulence (Microbiology); 579
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.07.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-842X

Abstract

Abstract : The composition of the gut microbiome is greatly influenced by nutrition and dietary alterations which can also induce large temporary microbial shifts. However, the molecular mechanisms that promote these changes remain to be determined. Species of the family Lactobacillaceae and Bacillus species are genetically manipulatable bacteria that are naturally found in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract and are often considered models of beneficial microbiota. Here, we identify specific conserved molecular pathways that play a key role in host colonization by beneficial members of the microbiota. In particular, we highlight three pathways important to the success of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the GI tract: glycolysis and fermentation, microbial communication via membrane vesicles, and condition-dependent antibiotic production. We elaborate on how the understanding of these circuits can lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to combat GI tract infections. Highlights: The activities of probiotic communities under different environmental conditions can be predicted. Fermentation capacity and acid tolerance are good predictors of probiotic communities' structure and function for members of the Lactobacillaceae . Adhesion, quorum sensing, and membrane vesicle formation are potential predictors of the success of probiotic communities, but their regulators remain to be determined. Antibiotic production and delivery are governed by fermentation, quorum sensing, and membrane vesicle formation. Certain beneficial functions of lactic-acid-positive bacteria can be mimicked by purified self-produced antibiotics and membrane vesicles.