Trehalose and maltodextrin preserve microbial community structure in freeze-dried fecal samples for fecal microbiota transplantation.

ABSTRACT: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a promising approach for restoring gut microbial balance in both humans and animals. However, the logistical limitations of transplanting fresh fecal samples have increased interest in freeze-dried (lyophilized) fecal material as a transplant inoculum. While lyophilization facilitates storage, it can compromise bacterial viability, which is essential for FMT effectiveness. Lyoprotectants are often used to protect bacterial cultures during freeze-drying, but their effect on complex microbial communities remains unclear, as they may preferentially preserve some taxa over others. This study investigated the impact of four lyoprotectants-mannitol, maltodextrin, trehalose, and a maltodextrin-trehalose mixture-on bacterial viability and community structu

SUBMITTER: Oladele P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12716274 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature