S. THERMOPHILUS (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 - Sci and Tech)

Context: Scientists at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in India have discovered a new strain of lactic acid bacteria while studying the genetic makeup of a different S. thermophilus strain.

1. 
   thermophilus 

• About: S. thermophilus is a gram-positive, non-motile, and non-sporulating bacterium that can grow under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.
• Probiotic Function: It is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) found in the digestive tract.
• Lactic Acid Production: It produces lactic acid in the gut by converting lactose into lactic acid.
• Digestive Benefits: S. thermophilus helps break down food, absorb nutrients, and combat "bad" organisms that might cause diseases.
• Lactose Intolerance Improvement: It can help improve lactose digestion in individuals who are lactose intolerant.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The bacterium has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Uses: S. thermophilus is commonly used to produce fermented dairy foods such as yogurt.

oIt is also used in probiotic supplements.

• Limited Evidence for Some Uses: While people use S. thermophilus for conditions like diarrhea, constipation, and colic, there is no strong scientific evidence supporting these uses. Similarly, there is no good evidence to support its use for COVID-19.

Strain MCC0200

• About: It is a newly discovered strain of lactic acid bacteria.
• Found: Thrives in the Gut, it has a strong affinity for intestinal surfaces and interacts effectively with host cells.
• Adheres to Mucosal Surfaces: This adhesion ability is crucial for promoting gut health and immune function.
• Antioxidant Properties: MCC0200 has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress-induced damage.