Healthy microbial ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT)

Desired outcome

Our goal is to develop food supplements, which would promote the establishment and/or maintenance of healthy microbial ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

Initial Problem Description

First step in the development of dietary supplements for GIT (gastrointestinal tract) eubiosis establishment/maintenance involves scientific literature review. We need to gather following information:
- GIT microbiome composition at the physiological and pathological conditions (including conditions after antibiotic therapy treatment). Which conditions influence the microbiome composition and how (lifestyle, gender…)?
- Which biological samples and what identification methods are used for GIT microbiome detection? Are there some commercially available rapid tests on the market for dysbiosis detection? What kind of biological sample and identification method would you use to determine dysbiosis?
- Which food supplements for GIT microbiome are already available in the market? How does the microbiome of the GIT change after probiotic consumption? What is the pharmaceutical formulation of probiotics (capsules, tablets, powders, liquids…)? What is the optimal dose of probiotics? How to determine optimal probiotic dosage? What is the optimal duration of probiotic usage? How does duration of probiotic usage influence the microbiome composition?
- What is the regulatory status of food supplements in the EU and USA? What certificates are necessary to produce food supplements? Which regulatory requirements does the company have to comply with to produce food supplements? Are there any safety concerns regarding usage of probiotics as a food supplement?
- What are the future perspectives in the field of food supplements for maintenance/establishment of microbiome eubiosis? If there are no limitations, how would you design the food supplements for establishment/maintenance of healthy GIT microbiome?

Context

Microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract is a complex ecosystem consisting of diverse microorganisms such as fungi, viruses, bacteria etc., which play a unique physiological characteristics and functions in the host organism. Maintenance of the balance between the healthy and harmful gut microorganisms is essential and, through several mechanisms, is related to well-being and overall health and the prevention, development, and management of health/medical conditions.

Connection to cross-cutting areas

Usage of food supplements to maintain the equilibrium between the healthy and harmful gut microorganisms leads to the reduction of some pathological conditions which require consumption of drugs including antibiotics. Development of new food supplements could potentially reduce the usage of antibiotics, what would help in the worldwide fight against antibiotic resistance.

Input

The GIT and the intestinal microbiota display a symbiotic relationship. The microbiota contributes to the extraction of energy from food and synthesis of vitamins and amino acids, and helps form barriers against pathogens. Disruption of intestinal microbiota homeostasis—called dysbiosis—has been associated with inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, food allergies etc. The role of different food supplements on gastrointestinal health and microbiota still must be determined.

Expectations

Carrying out literature review in the food supplement field (scientific, manufacturing, and regulatory part of food supplement development), innovative design of ‘ideal’ food supplement for maintenance/establishment of gastrointestinal tract and to determine what are the main bottlenecks in food supplement production.

Desired Team Profile

Motivated students/researchers of natural science (biology, biotechnology, microbiology, pharmacy, biochemistry etc.) with basic knowledge of biotechnology and pharmacy or anyone interested in the field of food supplements (we will provide missing information and support you during the Challenge solving).

Additional Information

To help the selected team promptly deliver results, one team member of Jafral will be designated for this project on our side so that communication can be quick and efficient through the platform. If any questions arise, an assigned person will guide you while searching for the solution. We are happy to collaborate!

Related Keywords

• Biological Sciences
• Industrial Biotechnology
• Food Technology