Impact of Mannan-Oligosaccharide on Gut Microbial Diversity and Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes Ratio in BALB/c Mice

Abstract

Gut microbiota is responsible for causing imbalance and metabolic disorder of gut. Mannan-oligosaccharide (MOS) has been used as a potential Prebiotic. A seven day study was performed to detect the impact of MOS on BALB/c mice and to determine changes in gut microbiota and there microbial populations. Mice were administered with MOS (oral, 200 mg/kg b.w.) and vehicle were given to control mice. Animal study identified that MOS significantly decreased populations of faecal microbe colonies of treated mice as compared to control mice. Changes in microbe colonies were also observed in respect of their number, size, shape, colour, opacity, etc. This suggests MOS has capability to improve the gut microbiome by altering Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus microbes in the colon. These microscopic organisms are known as valuable microorganisms, which are required to improve gut microbiota and gut health. Specifically, the admission of MOS additionally decreased the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes extent, which are known to cause imbalance of gut microbiota. That is the reason why MOS is useful for controlling gut microbiota and improving health of a host. Along these lines, MOS can be used as a prebiotic agent for regulating the gut microbiota and treating overweight, inflammation and metabolic issue.