Evaluating the effect of plant origin prebiotics (Raffinose and Stachyose) on iron status, intestinal functionality and intestinal bacterial populations in vivo

Abstract

Iron (Fe) deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide. Certain prebiotics (e.g. inulin) have been shown to improve Fe absorption. This study investigates the effectiveness of various prebiotics that are present in staple food crops that are widely consumed in regions where dietary Fe deficiency is a health concern to improve Fe status, intestinal functionality and cecal microbiome in vivo (Gallus gallus), and by using the intra‐amniotic administration procedure. On day 17th of embryonic incubation 120 fertile eggs were divided into 6 groups (n=20) and the respective prebiotic treatment solutions (1 mL) were then injected into the amniotic fluid of the eggs. Treatment group were as follows: 1. 5% Raffinose (in saline); 2. 10% Raffinose (in saline); 3. 5% Stachyose (in saline); 4. 10% Stachyose (in saline); 5. Saline; 6. Non injected. At hatch, cecum and small intestine were collected for assessment of relative abundance of the various gut micro flora analysis and gene expression analysis respectively. The prebiotic treatment groups showed to significantly (p<0.05) increase the relative expression (AU) in aminopeptidase, sucrase isomaltase, ATPase, and sodium glucose co‐transporter 1 (SGLT1), these are proteins reflect the functionality of the intestinal enterocyte brush border membrane (BBM). The relative expression of Fe related proteins; ferroportin and Divalent Metal Transporter 1 (DMT 1) resulted in an overall down regulation (p<0.05) in most of the prebiotic treatment groups. The prebiotic treatment groups promoted an increase in the relative abundance of Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus and E. coli yet not in Clostridium (p<0.05). Taken together, these results suggest the prebiotics affected probiotic increase, Fe bioavailability, and BBM functionality. Our investigations have led to a greater understanding of these various prebiotics’ effects on intestinal health.