Effects of Yeast β-Glucan on Gut Microbiota and Metabolism in Mice

Abstract:

[Objective]This study aims to investigate the digestion characteristics of yeast β-glucan and its effects on gut microbiota. [Method] On the basis of simulated digestion and the gut microbiota fermentation model of mice, 16S rRNA amplification sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics analysis were conducted to investigate the effects of yeast β-glucan on the microorganisms and metabolites of in vitro fermentation of mouse gut microbiota. [Result] Yeast β-glucan increased the microbial concentration in the in vitro fermentation broth, promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids, and significantly increased the proliferation of Firmicutes such as Lactobacillus murinus. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis showed that yeast β-glucan exerted its effects mainly through metabolism-related pathways, including glycerophospholipid, pathogenic Escherichia coli infection and linoleic acid metabolism. In addition, correlation analysis revealed highly significant correlations between characteristic bacteria and significantly changed metabolites. [Conclusion] Yeast β-glucan exerts functions such as modulating immunity by regulating the gut microbiota and promoting the production of fatty acid-related metabolites. The findings provide a theoretical basis for probing into the mechanism through which yeast β-glucan regulates the health of the body.