Exploring encapsulation strategies as a protective mechanism to avoid amensalism in mixed populations of Pseudomonas taetrolens and Lactobacillus casei

Topical application of Lactobacilli successfully eradicates Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms and promotes wound healing in chronic wounds

Chronic wounds are difficult to treat due to the presence of biofilm which prevents wound healing. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common pathogens found in chronic wounds and conventional treatment strategies have been ineffective in the eradication of its biofilm, without harming the surrounding healthy tissue at the same time. Here, we introduced an innovative approach applying the probiotic product Bio-K+ (containing three lactobacilli) topically as an antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent. We identified lactic acid as the main active component. While antibiotics and antiseptics such as silver-ions only demonstrated limited efficacy, Bio-K+ was able to completely eradicate mature P. aeruginosa biofilms established in an in-vitro and ex-vivo human skin model. Furthermore, it demonstrated biocompatibility in the co-culture with human dermal fibroblasts and accelerated the migration of fibroblasts in a cell migration assay promoting wound healing. To enhance clinical practicability, we introduced Bio-K+ into the hydrocolloid dressing Aquacel, achieving sustained release of lactic acid and biofilm eradication. This new treatment approach applying probiotics could represent a major improvement in the management of chronic wounds and can be extended in treating other biofilm-associated infections.

Biosynthesis of lactobionic acid: a systematic review

Lactobionic acid is a comparatively less explored lactose derivative with impressive biofunctional qualities, and is currently being used by the advanced chemical and pharmaceutical research industries. It is an aldonic acid with probiotics, antimicrobial, antioxidant, calcium chelating activity. In dairy and food products, it can be used to improve flavor, texture, yield and shelf life with additional health benefits. The biochemical method for producing lactobionic acid makes it safe for humans to consume as food or medicine. This systematic review describes the various bioproduction methods of lactobionic acid. This study emphasizes the production method, conversion rate, and specific yield of various microorganisms and enzymes employed in biosynthesis of lactobionic acid. Scopus advanced search is used for database mining. Original, traceable peer-reviewed research articles directly related to lactobionic acid are selected for this systematic review. The selected articles are grouped for ease of discussion and understanding. In the last 75 years, several bioproduction methods of lactobionic acid have been developed. By fine-tuning the microbial incubation conditions, the productivity of lactobionic acid can be significantly improved. The oxidoreductase enzymes responsible for the conversion of lactose can be purified from the system by advanced membrane technology. In the presence of a suitable redox mediator and regenerative enzyme, an efficient continuous lactobionic acid production system can be developed. To date, several methods are available for the complete conversion of lactose to lactobionic acid with an impressive specific production rate. This review will help researchers and industries to have better insights and understanding of the bioproduction of lactobionic acid.