L. casei is widely distributed across dairy niches, plant matrices, and host-associated environments. This module isolates strain candidates from relevant sources and applies high-throughput screening for acid tolerance, bile resilience, and adhesion-related traits, building a diversified L. casei strain bank with tractable, data-backed phenotypes.
Accurate identification is non-negotiable for the “L. casei group” (L. casei, L. paracasei, L. rhamnosus), where conventional markers may lack resolution. We combine whole-genome sequencing, MLST/phylogenomics, and phenotype verification to confirm L. casei identity and strengthen traceability for documentation and study comparability.
This module profiles L. casei functional potential using pathogen-competition assays, barrier integrity readouts, and metabolite analytics, then layers in omics when deeper mechanism-of-action (MoA) interpretation is required. The outcome is a defensible map linking L. casei strain behavior to measurable, reproducible research endpoints.
Given the immune-signaling relevance reported for L. casei strains in controlled studies, we use PBMC platforms and epithelial–immune co-culture systems (e.g., Caco-2 with immune cell layers) to quantify cytokine patterns and pathway signatures. This enables selection of L. casei candidates with defined immunomodulatory profiles under standardized conditions.
L. casei performance is tightly coupled to carbohydrate metabolism. We quantify utilization across diverse carbon sources—including prebiotics and human milk oligosaccharide–related motifs—to understand survival advantages and to guide media design. Genotype-to-phenotype links (e.g., operon content) can be incorporated to rationalize L. casei fermentation behavior.
We develop high-density L. casei fermentation strategies by optimizing feed design and key parameters (pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen and redox constraints). Outputs include growth kinetics, yield optimization for viable biomass or defined metabolites, and a scale-aware package that supports smooth translation from lab to pilot runs.
To protect L. casei through processing and shelf life, we evaluate lyoprotectants, drying conditions, and stabilization strategies such as microencapsulation. The deliverable is a formulation blueprint that improves survivability during manufacturing stress and supports stability through simulated gastrointestinal transit—without overpromising outcomes beyond research contexts.
For programs exploring L. casei as a programmable chassis, we apply synthetic biology options for heterologous expression, secretion/display strategies, and targeted genomic edits. Work can include integration design, stability verification, and containment-aware construct planning so engineered L. casei strains remain genetically consistent across passages and experimental runs.
