Thesis subject
Isolation and characterization of novel short chain fatty acid (SCFA) producing microorganisms from human anaerobic ecosystem
The human gastro-intestinal (GI) tract is the home of a huge microbial assemblage. The number of microorganisms greatly exceeds human cells, resulting in one of the most diverse and dynamic microbial ecosystems.
The gut microbiota have a major influence on human health as potential source of infectious agents but also as a barrier against infectious agents and health promoting agents such as immune development and energy supply by short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. SCFAs are demonstrated to be able to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disorders, cancer and cardiovascular diseases. However the number of representative isolates including SCFA producers from human gut is rather limited. It is necessary to get more representative microorganisms in pure culture to enable further studies in their eco-physiology in contact with human gut health. In order to have better understanding about this ecosystem, it is necessary to isolate novel species, especially SCFA producers due to their vital effects on human intestine. Several compounds are demonstrated as precursors for SCFAs and especially butyrate and propionate production for instance resistance starch, inulin, rhamnose, tagatose, lactate and so on. Media including these compounds would be used to obtain major SCFA producers.
Aim
The aim of this project is to isolate novel microorganisms which are able to produce SCFAs, particularly butyrate and propionate.
Techniques and methods
More information
Supervisor
Bui Thi Phuong Nam, MSc
Caroline M. Plugge, PhD
Contact info: nam.bui@wur.nl
Laboratory of Microbiology Building 316, room K.012
Duration: 4-6.5 month