T&L + APC joint patent filed for novel synbiotic tech to enhance metabolic health
The joint application arises from a two-year partnership between the ingredient specialists that focused on metabolic pathways and how they affect the relationship between the microbiome and health factors.
Initial clinical research suggests that combining the probiotic Lactobacillus mucosa (Lb. mucosae) with dietary fibre has potential benefits for cardiometabolic health, as well as for weight management, liver health, reducing inflammation, and improving immunity and gut health.
Tate & Lyle Global Head, Nutrition & Regulatory Affairs, Dr Kavita Karnik commented: “The health benefits this new synbiotic fibre ingredient could bring, such as improving heart health and tackling obesity are exciting.”
Probiotic mechanism
Lactobacillus mucosae is a lactic acid bacterial strain (LAB) originally developed by the University College of Cork (UCC) and the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Teagasc.
The probiotic has known benefits in lowering blood cholesterol and preventing coronary heart disease when used as a functional ingredient in yoghurt: the development team indicates it can reduce blood cholesterol by 53% in 12 weeks.
Furthermore, findings from a study conducted in 2019 – and funded by Teagasc – revealed cardio-protective effects of the probiotic through modulation of the bile pool composition and immune responses. Secretions produced by Lb. mucosae also attenuated inflammatory-mediated metabolic dysfunction.
The latest novel formula combines the same probiotic strain with Tate & Lyle’s proprietary PROMITOR soluble dietary fibres and was co-designed by APC Principal Investigators Paul Ross, Catherine Stanton, and Noel Caplice, among others.
The two companies have an “ongoing” relationship and recently confirmed an extension to their research partnership.
Dr Karnik said: “As a science-driven organisation, we are pleased to be continuing our research with APC Microbiome Ireland, looking into the gut microbiome and the positive role fibres can play in improving our health.”
Background
APC Microbiome Ireland SFI Research Centre was established in 2003 and is a national institute and resource for innovation. The centre brings together researchers, clinicians, and industry to investigate the influence of intestinal microbiota on health and disease in order to develop new therapies.
The centre has contributed to scientific discoveries in antimicrobial resistance, obesity, mental health, anti-aging technology, and inflammatory disease.
Meanwhile, PROMITOR is a corn-based soluble fibre with high digestive tolerance to reduce digestive discomfort. According to Tate & Lyle, it supports gastrointestinal health, maintenance of healthy blood glucose, and enhances calcium absorption.
