Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei HP-B1337 associated with lipotropic effect on high-fat-diet-induced obesity mice.

[AIMS] Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver condition, affecting 25% of adults globally, with risks of progression to severe complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Emerging evidence highlights gut microbiota dysbiosis in NAFLD pathogenesis, suggesting probiotics as promising interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei HP-B1337 as a probiotic for NAFLD management through phenotypic, genotypic analyses, and in-vivo mouse model.

[METHODS AND RESULTS] The strain L. paracasei HP-B1337 was identified using colony morphology, physiological and biochemical characterization, carbon utilization tests, and whole-genome sequencing. Its safety profile was assessed via minimum inhibitory concentration testing, genotype-based antibiotic resistance analysis, biogenic amine production assays, and genetic screening for virulence and pathogenic factors. Probiotic properties, including acid and bile salt tolerance, antimicrobial activity against pathogens, adhesion capacity, and beneficial gene identification, were investigated. Additionally, the anti-NAFLD potential of HP-B1337 was validated in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced mouse model. The results demonstrated that HP-B1337 exhibits robust probiotic characteristics, a favorable safety profile, and significant efficacy in alleviating HFD-induced fatty liver disease in mice.

[CONCLUSIONS] Findings of this study provide strong evidence supporting the candidacy of HP-B1337 as a probiotic for NAFLD management.