Electrophoresis used to analyse probiotics

Electrophoresis combined with quantitative analysis has been used to determine characteristics of probiotics.

In a study published in BMC Microbiology, scientists constructed an experiment aimed to test how probiotics fare in relation to bile tolerance in order to ascertain key factors in their makeup.

By doing so, the researchers hoped to gain an insight into the best probiotics to use in clinical testing.

Beginning with nine strains, the team narrowed the relevant samples down to three, which were then studied with quantitative analysis, 2D electrophoresis, liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and additional methods.

Six proteins were identified to affect probiotics' bile tolerance levels, which the scientists conclude can be used as "biological markers" for studies in the probiotic field.

An open access online journal, BMC Microbiology is a resource for scientists, who will be able to find peer reviewed papers.

Studies are published immediately after review and can focus on a range of aspects of microbiology.