Synergy1 enhances expression of anti-tumour genes
Fermentation products of inulin may be protective in early stages of cancer onset. The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of inulin fermentation samples on gene expression profiles in non-transformed human colonocytes. Oligofructose-enriched inulin (Orafti®Synergy1) was fermented in batch cultures with human gut flora. Colonocytes, chirurgically obtained, were subsequently incubated with Synergy1 fermentation supernatant (SFS). Metabolic activity (trophic effects and cytotoxicity) and gene expression profiles were measured. Inulin fermentation resulted in a 2 to 3-fold increase in short chain fatty acids (SCFA). SFS was non-toxic and increased metabolic activity, pointing to trophic effects. SFS modulated the expression of several glutathione S-transferases (GST) iso-forms: it enhanced GSTM2 (2.0 fold) and GSTM5 (2.2 fold). GST are phase II enzymes of biotransformation that detoxify many carcinogens.
To conclude, the results of this study enhance our understanding about the chemopreventive properties of inulin and its
fermentation products. Induction of GST activities by inulin fermentation may protect the cells from carcinogenicity.
Sauer J, Richter KK, Pool-Zobel BL (2007) Products formed during fermentation of the prebiotic inulin with human gut flora enhances expression of biotransformation genes in human primary colon cells. Brit. J. Nutr. 97: 928-937.
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