Application of Bifidobacterium breve BBr16 in Treating Age-related Cognitive Impairments

Abstract

The study focuses on Bifidobacterium breve BBr16, a probiotic strain capable of alleviating age-related cognitive impairments. The strain, deposited under CGMCC No.24471, has demonstrated significant efficacy in improving cognitive functions and is proposed for use in therapeutic products targeting cognitive decline in the elderly.

Keywords

Bifidobacterium breve BBr16, cognitive impairment, aging, probiotics, gut microbiota

1. Introduction

With the global trend of population aging, the incidence of cognitive impairments, including neurodegenerative diseases, is rising rapidly. Traditional methods have provided limited relief, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic strategies. The gut-brain axis has emerged as a critical player in this context, with gut microbiota influencing cognitive health. Probiotics, particularly Bifidobacterium species, are known to maintain gut homeostasis and exhibit health benefits.

2. Background

Bifidobacterium breve BBr16 was isolated from the feces of healthy breastfed infants in Guangxi Bama Yao Autonomous County. This strain exhibits superior acid and bile tolerance, essential for surviving the gastrointestinal tract and exerting its beneficial effects. Prior studies highlight the role of gut microbiota in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress, both implicated in cognitive decline.

3. Materials and Methods

3.1. Strain Isolation and Identification

· Sample Source: Feces from healthy breastfed infants.

· Isolation Process: Serial dilution, plating on solid media, incubation at 37°C for 48 hours, colony selection, purification on modified MRS media, and storage in 40% glycerol.

· Identification: Physiological tests to determine acid and bile tolerance, and subsequent deposit at CGMCC under No.24471.

3.2. Probiotic Preparation

· Cultivation: Inoculation in MRS medium, incubation at 30-40°C for 12-30 hours.

· Formulations: Freeze-dried powders, capsules, tablets, or granules with viable counts not less than 1×10^8 CFU/mL or g.

4. Experimental Findings

4.1. Cognitive Function Improvement

· Animal Model: Aging-accelerated mice.

· Outcomes: Reduced aging scores, increased mobility, enhanced time spent in the center of open fields, decreased latency in maze tasks, elevated dopamine and serotonin levels in the striatum and hippocampus, and modulated inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10) in serum.

4.2. Biochemical Impact

· Liver Health: Increased SOD enzyme activity, elevated GSH content, higher CAT enzyme levels, and reduced MDA levels in the liver of treated mice.

5. Probiotic Synergy

The combination of Bifidobacterium breve BBr16 with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LC86 (CGMCC No.1.12731) shows enhanced efficacy. The optimal ratio of live bacteria counts is (3-5):1, providing superior cognitive benefits compared to individual strains or other combinations.

6. Applications

6.1. Therapeutic Products

· Target: Prevention, improvement, or treatment of age-related cognitive impairments.

· Forms: Probiotic supplements, functional foods, and potentially pharmaceuticals.

6.2. Supplementary Ingredients

· Protectants: Skim milk powder.

· Additives: Inulin, oligosaccharides, trehalose, resistant dextrin, spirulina, polydextrose, α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, and their combinations.

7. Conclusion

Bifidobacterium breve BBr16 presents a promising candidate for managing cognitive decline associated with aging. Its probiotic formulation, particularly in synergy with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei LC86, offers a novel, safe, and effective approach to support cognitive health in the elderly.