Zbiotics introduces a new category of probiotics. These are engineered at a genetic level to perform specific functions within the body. This approach represents a shift from traditional probiotics, aiming to address particular health challenges through targeted biochemical actions.
What Makes Zbiotics Different?
Zbiotics are distinguished by their use of genetic engineering to modify probiotic bacteria. Unlike conventional probiotics, which primarily focus on populating the gut with helpful microbes, Zbiotics are designed to produce specific enzymes or other beneficial substances. This involves inserting genes into common probiotic strains, enabling them to carry out functions natural bacteria don’t perform efficiently. For instance, Zbiotics has introduced a gene encoding acetaldehyde dehydrogenase into Bacillus subtilis to break down acetaldehyde. This bioengineering allows these modified bacteria to act as miniature factories within the digestive system, addressing specific physiological processes.
The company chose Bacillus subtilis as its base organism due to its established safety record, its ability to form resilient spores that survive harsh conditions like stomach acid, and its well-understood genetics. These spores “wake up” in the intestines and begin producing the desired enzymes. This engineered approach influences health outcomes by delivering specific enzymatic activities directly to the gut.
Targeting Acetaldehyde: The Pre-Alcohol Product
Zbiotics’ “Pre-Alcohol” product utilizes Bacillus subtilis ZB183™, a genetically engineered probiotic designed to break down acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde is a toxic byproduct formed when the body metabolizes alcohol, and it is largely responsible for the unpleasant feelings experienced the day after drinking. While the liver naturally produces an enzyme to break down acetaldehyde, the gut does not. Consequently, acetaldehyde can accumulate in the gut, filtering into the rest of the body.
The ZB183™ strain is engineered to produce acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), the same type of enzyme found in the liver that converts acetaldehyde into harmless acetate. By introducing this enzyme directly into the gut, Zbiotics aims to augment the body’s natural ability to process this unwanted byproduct. The gene for ALDH was sourced from another soil bacterium, Cupriavidus necator, and inserted into a specific region of the Bacillus subtilis genome. This targeted action helps reduce acetaldehyde accumulation in the digestive system, potentially leading to a more comfortable morning after drinking.
Addressing Sugar: The Sugar-to-Fiber Product
Zbiotics also offers a “Sugar-to-Fiber” product, which features Bacillus subtilis ZB423™. This engineered probiotic strain is designed to convert dietary sugar into beneficial fiber within the gut. Specifically, ZB423™ produces an enzyme called levansucrase. This enzyme breaks down sucrose, commonly known as table sugar, into its components: glucose and fructose. The probiotic then utilizes the fructose to construct a type of fiber called levan.
This process aims to increase the amount of fermentable prebiotic fiber in the gut, which supports a healthier and more diverse microbiome. Unlike traditional fiber supplements that deliver pre-formed fiber all at once, the “Sugar-to-Fiber” probiotic creates fiber gradually throughout the day, using the sugar already present in the diet. While this product is not intended to impact blood sugar or weight, it contributes to overall gut health by providing a continuous supply of this rare prebiotic fiber.
Broader Potential and Ongoing Research
Beyond their current commercial products, Zbiotics is exploring additional applications for genetically engineered probiotics. Research has investigated the potential therapeutic effects of ZB183, the same strain used in the “Pre-Alcohol” product, in managing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Studies suggest that ZB183 may help by modulating specific signaling pathways and improving the integrity of the gut-liver axis.
In preclinical models, ZB183 administration has been shown to reduce hepatic inflammation and steatosis, and improve colon health. These findings indicate a broader scope for genetically engineered probiotics in addressing complex health conditions by influencing internal biological processes. This ongoing research highlights the potential for these probiotics to address various health concerns in the future.