Download Keywords : microorganisms, cholesterol, radioprotective agents

Title : Characterizing the anti-oxidant and anti-cholesterol properties of food
supplements based on edible MELiSSA bacteria, and their impact on the gut
microbiome.
Keywords : microorganisms, cholesterol, radioprotective agents, ionizing radiation,
gut flora.
Abstract:
Food intake and the human gut microbiome play an important role in oxidant- and
cholesterol balance, and thus can likely play also an important role in the radiationinduced health effects, in space and on earth. Any natural food supplement that could
help to maintain a healthy microbiome, and at the same time prevent or reduce both this
radiation-induced oxidant and high cholesterol effects may be a major benefit for persons
exposed to radiation or radioactive substances (such as cosmonauts, pilots and nuclear
workers). Microbial products could bring added value to the field of space radiation protection.
Therefore, the main objective of this work is to characterize various biomass preparations
and extracts used within the MELiSSA life support systems for their anti-oxidant properties
and potential cholesterol lowering effect via in vitro and in vivo tests and explore their
potential use as radio protective agent (as such or in combination with each other) in the field
of radiation biology. Photobioreactor cultivation techniques will be used since large amount of
bacterial material is needed to perform the in vivo studies. Taking advantage of the existing
knowledge about the genomes of these bacteria and the related genetic tools genetic
variants with altered production of particular cellular components will be constructed to test
several hypotheses regarding the active compounds. Relevant microbial cell fractions will be
characterized using chromatography and protein mass spectrometry. The various strains will
be prepared for in vitro activity tests and for in vivo studies via addition to the chow of
experimental animals. After short-term treatment, metagenomic profiling of the intestinal
microflora of fed animals as well as total plasma antioxidant and cholesterol levels, and
morphology of relevant organs (heart, arteries, liver, etc.) of the test animals will be assessed.
Note:
To avoid compromising the IP potential the information contained in this abstract is
intentionally kept at limited level. More information can be obtained by contacting the
MELiSSA Foundation after signature of a pertinent non-disclosure agreement.
Impact on MELiSSA
This study will characterize possible new food supplements to be used in space as well as on
earth.
References:
Available after NDA.
Desired knowledge:
Candidates preferably possess a degree in biology, (bio)chemistry or bioengineering with
experience in microbial cultures management, microbial genetics and molecular biology.
Experience in microbial food, mass spectrometry and animal testing are highly appreciated.