DuPont Research Demonstrates Impact of Strain Specificity on Human Milk Oligosaccharide Utilization

MADISON, WI, Oct. 12, 2020 – Continuing its leading research on human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences released the findings of a new study demonstrating the importance of probiotic strain specificity, even within a sub-species, when related to efficient utilization of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs).

Several species of Bifidobacterium have been shown to utilize HMOs, but little work has been done to study utilization variations within the species or sub-species. This study examined two strains of B. infantis, a prevalent species in the guts of breastfed infants. The study found that B. infantis Bi-26™ has a unique strategy to quickly utilize 2-Fucolsyllactose (2’-FL), 3’-FL and difucosyllactose (DFL) which results in faster growth, unique metabolite production, and a distinct global gene transcription response when compared to the type strain ATCC 15697 (reference strain for the B. infantis subspecies).

“We are excited to further the research on defining the individual strain’s role within the complex system of the microbiome. It is essential to understand the numerous interactions affecting our health throughout life which can eventually be used as a guide to develop products for supplementation,” stated the study’s lead author, Bryan Zabel, assistant scientist, DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences.

“Our research helps us to further understand the interactions between probiotic strains and HMOs and allows us to develop targeted health products,” said Dr. Ratna Mukherjea, Technical Fellow and Technology & Innovation Leader, Specialized Nutrition, DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences. “This study marks a significant advancement in DuPont’s work in early life nutrition.”

You can read the full study at http://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72792-z.

About DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences
DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences applies expert science to advance market-driven, healthy and sustainable solutions for the food, beverage, dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries. We also use cutting-edge biotechnology across a range of markets to advance bio-based solutions to meet the needs of a growing population, while protecting our environment for future generations. We are innovative solvers who help our customers turn challenges into high-value business opportunities. For more information: www.dupontnutritionandbiosciences.com.

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food, and worker safety. More information can be found at www.dupont.com/.

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10/12/20

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For further information contact:

Mariah Saerndahl

715.210.2509

Mariah.Saerndahl@dupont.com

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