Occurrence and applications of CRISPR-Cas systems in bifidobacteria.

2026-01-27
Applied and environmental microbiology 92(1)
- Jiyong Shin
- Rodolphe Barrangou

PubMed: 41489362
DOI: 10.1128/aem.01703-25

Study Design

Type: Review
Methods: In this review, we provide an overview of the occurrence, diversity, and distribution of CRISPR-Cas systems across Bifidobacterium species and examine the editing tools developed and implemented to date.

Rigorous Journal

Bifidobacterium is a key member of the human gut microbiota, and many strains are widely used as probiotics due to their health-promoting properties. Despite growing interest, genetic studies in Bifidobacterium have been relatively limited, primarily due to the lack of available genome editing tools. Recent advances in genomics and CRISPR-Cas systems provide opportunities for targeted genome modification in this genus. In this review, we provide an overview of the occurrence, diversity, and distribution of CRISPR-Cas systems across Bifidobacterium species and examine the editing tools developed and implemented to date. We also highlight practical challenges such as strain variability and low transformation efficiency and introduce future avenues of research such as large-payload insertion and in situ editing. Expanding the genetic toolbox for Bifidobacterium will broaden our understanding of this important genus and enable the development of next-generation probiotics.

Research Insights

Supplement	Dose	Health Outcome	Effect Type	Effect Size	Source
Bifidobacterium animalis BS-01	—	Improved Gut Health	Beneficial	Small	View source Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BS-01 is described as a probiotic strain widely used due to its health-promoting properties, and the review highlights applications of CRISPR-Cas systems in this genus rather than reporting clinical outcomes of BS-01 consumption.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis M-63	—	Reduced Gastrointestinal Symptoms	Beneficial	Small	View source The study described improvements in digestive condition after intake of B. longum subsp. infantis M-63, including fewer gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation and abdominal discomfort.