A dried yeast fermentate selectively modulates both the luminal and mucosal gut microbiota and protects against inflammation, as studied in an integrated in vitro approach.

2013-09-19
Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 61(39)
- Sam Possemiers
- Iris Pinheiro
- An Verhelst
- Pieter Van den Abbeele
- Lois Maignien
- Debby Laukens
- Stuart G Reeves
- Larry E Robinson
- Thomas Raas
- Yves-Jacques Schneider
- Tom Van de Wiele
- Massimo Marzorati

PubMed: 24006902
DOI: 10.1021/jf402137r

EpiCor, derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has been shown to have immunomodulating properties in human clinical trials and in vitro. However, the underlying mechanisms behind its immune protection via the gut remain largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use an integrated in vitro approach to evaluate the metabolism of EpiCor by the intestinal microflora, its modulating effect on the gut microbiota, and its anti-inflammatory activity on human-derived cell lines. Using the SHIME model, in combination with a mucus adhesion assay, has shown that low doses of EpiCor have a prebiotic-like modulatory effect on the luminal- and mucosa-associated microbiota. These include gradual changes in general community structure, reduction of potential pathogens, quantitative increase in lactobacilli, and qualitative modulation of bifidobacteria. Moreover, by combination of the SHIME with Caco-2 cells and Caco-2/THP1 cocultures, a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed at the end of the treatment period.

Research Insights

Supplement	Health Outcome	Effect Type	Effect Size
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate	Increased Lactobacillus Abundance	Beneficial	Small
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate	Modulated Gut Microbiota	Beneficial	Moderate
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate	Reduced Inflammation	Beneficial	Moderate
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate	Reduced Pathogenic Bacteria	Beneficial	Small
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentate	Reduced Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines	Beneficial	Moderate