In our present generation a new concept in the management of health care has been introduced. It is the science of Probiotics. It is based on the principle that microorganisms that cause trouble to our stomachs can be subdued by the ingestion of commercially prepared Lactobacilli. These problems can include diarrhea, peptic ulcer, lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, and a host of other maladies.
The most common types of lactobacilli are L. acidophilus, L. casei, and L. plantarum. They are also called Lactic Acid Bacteria, or LAB.
Live LAB intake through dairy products can have a lot of beneficial effects in our GI tract, and can alleviate the above-mentioned problems. This is possible because they (the LAB) can restore the normal intestinal flora, eliminate the intestinal pathogens, and reinforce internal barrier capacity to foreign antigens.
The Lactic Acid Bacteria strain can be sourced from vegetable wastes and fish intestines. Past researches about the presence of probiotic bacteria from the carp and the crab has led the way to this study.
In Munoz, Nueva Ecija, recently, the DOST-PCAARRD ushered an event called the 1st CLAARRDEC FIESTA. Held at the CLSU multi-purpose gym, Research and Development experts have shared their work through presentations.
Dr. Jacqueline V. Baganu of PSAU and MCU discussed her paper entitled “Isolation and Molecular Identification of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) from Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as Potential Pathogen Antagonist.”
The objective of this project aimed to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria from the intestinal tract of Nile Tilapia with antagonistic effect against selected human pathogens.
The Nile Tilapia, a fish commonly found in our marketplace makes savory dishes, cooked as sinigang or paksiw. It is also popular as simply fried or grilled. This humble fish originated in Africa and found its way in our local waters. Tilapia fish pens are a common sight along major lakes and rivers, the Philippines being a leading producer and breeder of this fish.
Dr. Baganu’s study is important because the Nile Tilapia is not only a source of food but also possible in the management of diseases. This is a welcome development in the drug industry because, with further studies, this can be a source of bacteriocin, to fight against human pathogens.
Two strains of Pediococcus pentosaceus and Enterococcus avium were isolated, and these LAB were found to have antagonistic activity against bacteria that causes the common humaintestinal ailments. The result of this research is a breakthrough and needs further studies to validate its findings.
