The Probiotic Potential of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917

Background of EcN

Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) represents a widely studied and acknowledged probiotic bacteria commonly utilized for therapeutic interventions. Discovered over a century ago, during World War I, EcN has been extensively studied for its probiotic properties and benefits. This non-pathogenic bacterial strain, isolated by Alfred Nissle from a soldier who did not succumb to dysentery epidemics when others around him did, has become one of the most commercially prominent and clinically successful probiotics.

While most E. coli strains are harmful and often associated with foodborne illnesses, it must be understood that E. coli is a diverse species of bacteria with both hazardous and beneficial strains. EcN is one such beneficial strain and has been utilized in probiotic therapies due to its beneficial effect on the host's health.

Probiotic Mechanisms of EcN

EcN exerts probiotic effects via multiple mechanisms. The favorable impacts of EcN are largely attributed to its ability to compete with pathogenic bacteria for adhesion sites, nutrients, and the modulation of host immune responses. By outcompeting these harmful bacteria, EcN alters the gut microbiota composition, promoting a healthier balance of bacterial species.

EcN modulates the gut's immune responses. It stimulates the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and reduces the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, creating a balance that prevents excessive or insufficient immune responses. Key cytokines include anti-inflammatory IL-10 and pro-inflammatory Interferon-gamma, etc. EcN also possesses the ability to induce tolerance towards harmless antigens, diminishing adverse allergic reactions. Furthermore, EcN contains an array of microcin-producing genes, enabling it to inhibit the growth of other harmful gram-negative bacteria.

Applications of EcN

The medical domain acknowledges EcN for its potential in managing several gastrointestinal disorders, epitomizing its importance in maintaining gut health. Its contribution to the treatment of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, has been well documented. Evidence showcasing its beneficial impact on irritable bowel syndrome and functional gastrointestinal disorders further underpins its therapeutic importance.

Beyond gastrointestinal disorders, EcN has demonstrated potential as a biotherapeutic tool for urinary tract infections and preventing postoperative infections. The genes responsible for producing microcins, with antimicrobial activities, present EcN as a promising candidate for addressing the global rise in antibiotic resistance.

Fig.1 Expanding the toolbox of probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle for synthetic biology.²

In recent years, therapeutic applications of EcN have transcended traditional boundaries, with studies exploring its role in anti-cancer therapy. EcN is viewed as a suitable agent for delivering therapeutic molecules to tumor sites. Its use extends beyond this, as It can serve as a carrier for the delivery of therapeutic molecules in gene therapy applications. It has been genetically engineered into live vaccines against different diseases.

The continued exploration of EcN and its potential uses underscores the ever-evolving understanding of probiotics and microbiota dynamics in human health and disease management. While further research is required to fully understand and harness the potential of this probiotic, the existing body of evidence undeniably frames EcN as an essential component in the continued development of effective microbial therapeutics.

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References

1. Schultz, M., and J. P. Burton. "Escherichia coli Nissle 1917." The microbiota in gastrointestinal pathophysiology. Academic Press, 2017. 59-69.
2. Ba, Fang, et al. "Expanding the toolbox of probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 for synthetic biology." Biotechnology Journal (2023): 2300327.

For Research Use Only. Not intended for use in food manufacturing or medical procedures (diagnostics or therapeutics). Do Not Use in Humans.