유산균 유전학 및 최근 연구 혁신

Genetics and Research Revolutions in the Lactic Acid Bacteria: Focused on Probiotics and Immunomodulation

As for probiotics, that is generally defined as a live cell supplement which is able to bring health benefits to their hosts, even though the concept is still remains in controversy. Scientific works has given positive answers to the questions about if many LAB strains function as probiotic bacteria in human and animals. Currently, the interactions between human and LAB are actively investigated in human intestine. From a biodiversity perspective, this particular subject in human intestine is also extensively explored by a number of researchers worldwide. So far, it has been found that new strains and new genes were discovered in gut microbiota which is reported unique in individual. Complete analysis on gut microbiota is necessary in order to understand the possible beneficial roles of LAB in human intestinal track. When it comes to qualification, a probiotic strain is proved to be safe to consume and healthful to human after it is orally administered. On the other hand, LAB is present as a member of gut microbiota, plays an important role in innate immunity and acquired immunity. Their immune-modulation activity is occurred not only in intestine but also systemic in human body. It is generally accepted that immune function by LAB is not genus-specific but strain-specific. More recently, new mechanism accounting for interactions between host and LAB has been understood after a soluble factor from LAB was found to be directly associated with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on intestinal epithelial cells. The soluble factor could be applied in the development of therapeutic agents. In conclusion, future research focus should be placed on the studies on the new LAB factors affecting human immune responses and its desirable effects because many different kinds of fermented foods representing kimchi have survived for a long time and those are popularly consumed in this country.