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
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.
- Effect
- Beneficial
- Effect size
- Small
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.
- Effect
- Beneficial
- Effect size
- Small