Work

Functional and safety assessment of the postbiotic candidate Haloimpatiens sporogenes FM7315T isolated from Myeolchi-jeot, a traditional Korean fermented anchovy

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The functionality and safety of Haloimpatiens sporogenes FM7315T, an obligate anaerobic bacterium isolated from a traditional Korean fermented anchovy, as a postbiotic candidate was evaluated. Genome-based analysis revealed a complete cbi–cob gene cluster for cobalamin biosynthesis, which was supported by the LC-MS/MS-based detection of a dimethylbenzimidazole fragment and ELISA-based quantification of vitamin B12 in the postbiotic fraction of strain FM7315ᵀ. Genome-level and phenotypic safety assessments revealed no acquired antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, or cytotoxic enzymatic activities, confirming strain safety. Cell-surface adhesion properties, reflected by hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation suggested intestinal adherence potential, whereas antioxidant assays demonstrated that both the extracellular and cell-associated fractions exhibited radical-scavenging activity. Metabolite analyses revealed the production of functional short-chain fatty acids, mainly butyrate and acetate, as well as vitamin B12 and putrescine, a polyamine. These compounds are associated with epithelial barrier maintenance, immunomodulatory, redox homeostasis, and gut homeostasis. The lysate of strain FM7315T was non-cytotoxic to THP-1-derived macrophages and enhanced cytokine production, demonstrating balanced, viability-independent immunostimulation characteristic of postbiotic functionality. Collectively, these results indicate that H. sporogenes FM7315T produces beneficial metabolites while maintaining genomic and functional safety, fulfilling the ISAPP criteria for postbiotics and representing a promising candidate for gut health modulation and immune support.

Source: LWT

DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2026.119756

Authors: Yu Jeong Lee, Tae-Rim Im, Baolei Jia, Yong Joo Park, Byung Hee Chun

Institutions: Pukyong National University, Kyungsung University

Language: English

Topic: Probiotics and Fermented Foods

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240