Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria.
2
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
3
Department of Microbiology, College of Natural Sciences, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria.
4
Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
Abstract
Background: The human microbiome, comprises of diverse microbial communities, is crucial for maintaining human health, especially within the gut. Escherichia coli O157:H7, known for its Shiga toxin production, is a major cause of diarrhea. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are recognized for their potential in preventing E. coli O157:H7 infection. This study aimed to assess the impact of LAB treatment on the intestinal microbiota of albino rats infected with E. coli O157:H7. Methods: Experimental albino rats were induced with Escherichia coli and diarrhea set in after three days and treated with Lactococcus lactis as probiotics, compared to a control group. Stool samples underwent 16S metagenomic profiling using the Pacbio platform. Results: it showed a bacterial dominance in the Kingdom domain, with increased read counts post-treatment. Phylum-level analysis revealed dominance by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Approximately half of the identified taxa were novel "Phylotypes." Predominant species/phylotypes included Pediococcus acidilacticci, Pediococcus, Collinsella aerofaciens, and Lactobacillus. While some organisms decreased post-treatment, new commensals and symbionts were acquired. Conclusion: this study highlights significant differences in the intestinal microbiota of albino rats pre- and post-LAB treatment, indicating L. lactis' efficacy in alleviating E. coli O157:H7-induced diarrhea and enriching gut microbiota.
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