POR FESR

Creation of a natural raw material to be included in food supplements intended to improve the well-being and health of consumers suffering from inflammatory bowel states

Axis 1 “Research, technological development and innovation”.
Action 1.1.1 ‘Call for proposals for the support of research projects involving researchers

Short description of the operation
The project is oriented towards the research of new raw materials (of biotechnological derivation) to be used in food supplements and functional foods for consumers suffering from intestinal inflammatory states, also related to the aging process and therefore framed in an active aging perspective.
Alterations of the intestinal microbiome, which also arise in relation to natural aging processes, are recognized as the cause of an inflammatory bowel state that can significantly determine the onset of inflammatory bowel diseases such as diverticulitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Aims
The aim of the project is the development of biotechnological production processes aimed at obtaining functional and curative raw materials for the above mentioned diseases. These raw materials will be obtained from cultures of bifidobacteria strains, key elements of a healthy intestinal bacterial flora, and will have the characteristic of being rich in molecules of bacterial cell metabolism of polysaccharide nature (exopolysaccharides – EPS) as they are known for their strong anti-inflammatory properties. EPS can promote the rebalancing and wellbeing of the intestinal microbiota, a metaorgan considered of primary importance in improving the health conditions and wellbeing of consumers, ensuring a better life perspective (active aging).

Results.
We started by studying 30 strains of bifidobacteria, identifying the major producers of exopolysaccharides (EPS) and the best growth conditions associated with this property.
The most promising strains have been the subject of more in-depth research at both the genome sequence and probiotic properties level. In addition, trials have been conducted to formulate a prototype food supplement.

Expected expenditure: € 39,960.00
Expected contribution: € 27,972.00