Streptococcus thermophilus (S. thermophilus)

About S. thermophilus:

• It is a gram-positive, non-motile, and non-sporulating bacterium that can grow underaerobic and anaerobic conditions.
• It is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) found in the digestive tract.
• It produces lactic acid in the gut (converting lactose into lactic acid).
• It can help break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases.
• It can help improve lactose digestion in individuals who are lactose intolerant.
• It has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. 
• S. thermophilus is commonly used to produce fermented dairy foods such as yogurt.
• It is also used in probiotic supplements.

What is MCC0200?

• It is a new strain of lactic acid bacteria recently discovered.
• It thrives in the gut, possesses a strong affinity for intestinal surfaces, allowing it to interact with host cells.
• This ability to adhere to mucosal surfaces is a crucial factor in promoting gut health and immune function. 
• In addition, MCC0200 has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress-induced damage.
• MCC0200 has the ability to assimilate cholesterol, which could help to lower serumcholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

MCC0200 could be an excellent probiotic candidate for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Q1: What is lactose?

Lactose is sometimes referred to as “milk sugar” because it is only found naturally in the milk of mammals—including cows, goats and humans. Milk from cows and goats is used to make cheese and yogurt, but not all milk products contain the same amount of lactose. Lactose intolerance is when your body can't break down or digest lactose.

Source: Indian scientists discover new probiotic with potential health benefits