Therapeutic potential of Saccharomyces boulardii in alleviating gastrointestinal stress through preservation of intestinal cell membrane integrity

Abstract

Abstract Background Saccharomyces boulardii shows great promise as a treatment for osteoporosis since it plays a crucial role in protecting against inflammatory bone loss and demonstrates exceptional resilience to gastrointestinal stress during oral administration. This study delved into the impacts of gastrointestinal stress on S. boulardii and the corresponding adaptive mechanisms employed by the yeast at the membrane level using physiological methodologies. Results The findings demonstrated that exposure to gastrointestinal stress compromised cellular integrity, resulting in cell wall rupture and the subsequent leakage of intracellular contents. To mitigate the adverse effects of gastrointestinal stress, S. boulardii activated several membrane-associated defense strategies. Notably, there was a decrease in membrane fluidity, and significant alterations in fatty acid composition, including a higher proportion of unsaturated fatty acids. Additionally, intracellular ergosterol and glutathione levels were substantially elevated, contributing to the stabilization of the cell membrane and minimizing damage caused by gastrointestinal stress. Conclusions Taken together, the comprehensive analysis presented in this study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying salt tolerance in S. boulardii. These results support the enhancement of the application of probiotics in osteoporosis, especially for oral administration requiring resistance to gastrointestinal stress.

Keywords

• Saccharomyces boulardii
• Gastrointestinal stress
• Membrane physiological
• Osteoporosis