Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus isolated from the feces of a 7-day-old breast-fed infant was characterized to examine the scope of its commercial use. Forty-three Lactobacillus strains, which could grow at pH 5.5, were isolated. From these Lactobacillus isolates, 14 Lactobacillus strains were selected, which demonstrated more than 80% viability and homofermentative lactic fermentation. Finally, 9 L. acidophilus strains (NB 201～NB 209) were identified as candidate strains based upon biochemical properties, carbohydrate utilization, and cellular fatty acid composition. L. acidophilus isolates demonstrated a survival rate of more than 80% when exposed to pH 2.5 for 2 h. In particular, L. acidophilus NB 204 showed a strong acid tolerance, with a 71% survival rate even at pH 2.0. L. acidophilus isolates also manifested high bile acid tolerance; more than 87% of the cells survived on agar containing 1% bile extract, except for L. acidophilus NB 206, which showed a 73% survival rate. All L. acidophilus isolates were confirmed to have proteolytic activity; L. acidophilus NB 204 and NB 209 yielded higher levels of TCA-soluble peptides and free amino acids. The β-galactosidase activity of the L. acidophilus isolates was in the range of 1.97～2.45 units/mL.