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Fungal β-Glucans Enhance Lactic Acid Bacteria Growth by Shortening Their Lag Phase and Increasing Growth Rate

Summary

Researchers tested whether extracts from common edible mushrooms like oyster and shiitake could help beneficial bacteria in the gut grow better. They found that these mushroom extracts, particularly their β-glucan components, helped probiotic bacteria start growing faster and grow more quickly. Importantly, the extracts did not help harmful bacteria grow, making them promising candidates for developing healthier food supplements that support gut health.

Background

The gut microbiome plays a significant role in health and well-being. Novel prebiotic compounds, such as fungal polysaccharides, show potential for synbiotic formulations. However, the underlying mechanisms of prebiotic effects of these compounds remain unclear.

Objective

This study investigated the prebiotic properties of fungal glucan extracts from Pleurotus ostreatus, Lentinula edodes, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on probiotic bacterial growth. The research aimed to identify optimal strain-glucan combinations and elucidate mechanisms by which fungal β-glucans stimulate probiotic bacteria growth.

Results

Fungal polysaccharide supplementation significantly shortened lag phase by 7-8 hours in all tested lactic acid bacteria strains and increased growth rate 2-fold in four strains. Different magnitudes of effects were observed across strain-extract combinations. Pathogenic bacteria (E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella) showed no growth stimulation, indicating selectivity toward probiotic strains.

Conclusion

Fungal β-glucans, particularly from mushroom sources, selectively stimulate growth of Lactobacillus and Lacticaseibacillus strains by accelerating entry into exponential phase. The study establishes a rapid screening method for optimal strain-glucan combinations to develop innovative synbiotic formulations with potential health benefits.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:In vitro Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40572201
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