Use of fecal microRNAs as biomarkers for probiotic administration

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Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms delivered in foods or supplements. Despite significant progress in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying probiotics properties, the lack of measurable biomarkers of probiotic intake hampers their full exploitation. The aim of this project is to identify fecal microRNA that change upon probiotic intake and could thus be used as biomarkers. Fecal microRNA are small molecules regulating gene expression that originate from the intestinal epithelium and are affected by bacterial exposure. In this study we will evaluate the response of fecal miRNA in individuals treated with antibiotics with or without probiotics. Selected miRNAs will be candidate biomarkers of probiotic intake. This will help the industry partner to screen and evaluate their own probiotics. The knowledge generated will also benefit Canada through supporting new dietary guidelines besides being at the forefront of probiotic research.