Molecular detection, phylogenetic analysis, and aflatoxin B1 binding capacity of Limosilactobacillus fermentum isolated from fermented coconut toddy

Recent studies have highlighted the significant potential of lactic acid bacteria to remove Aflatoxin B1 (AFB-1) through enzymatic degradation, adsorption, and absorption. In this study, we molecularly characterized lactic acid bacteria isolated from coconut toddy (“tuba”) and assessed their potential to remove AFB-1. The isolated lactic acid bacteria were cultivated in De Man Ragosa and Sharpe (MRS) broth for 72 h at 37°C under anaerobic conditions. Through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the isolated bacterium was taxonomically identified. Experimental validation was conducted to evaluate the ability of the isolated lactic acid bacteria to bind AFB-1. Molecular characterization revealed that the isolated organism was Limosilactobacillus fermentum. The binding of live cells and heat-treated bacteria revealed that both preparations provided 87.30±7.29% and 70.49±9.591% binding capacity for AFB-1, respectively. It was revealed that 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic prediction analysis are valuable tools for the identification, molecular characterization, and basis for experimental validation in AFB-1 binding capacity evaluation. These findings suggest a promising avenue to use natural probiotic agents to combat aflatoxin contamination, thereby enhancing food safety and public health.