Genomic characterization and preclinical evaluation of the candidate probiotic strain Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810

This study presents a comprehensive genomic and preclinical evaluation of Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810, establishing its taxonomic identity, genomic uniqueness, and safety profile. Genomic analyses identified strain-specific genes linked to adhesion, colonization, and pathogen exclusion, aligning with previously observed in vitro probiotic properties. In vivo studies in healthy mice demonstrated that Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810 modulates gut microbiota composition. Specifically, the relative abundance of Muribaculaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Streptococcaceae was significantly increased in the probiotic-treated group, whereas the relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae, Bacteroidaceae, Porphyromonadaceae, and Dehalobacteriaceae was decreased. Administration of Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810 was also associated with changes in intestinal gene expression: in the ileum, Tnf and Il1b expression increased, while in the cecum, Zo1 expression was elevated. These findings may indicate a role in supporting intestinal homeostasis and could be linked to reduced susceptibility to diet- and inflammation-related disorders. Overall, these results suggest that Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810 may be a useful candidate for further investigation in the development of health-oriented microbial products. By integrating genomic characterization with preclinical evaluation, this study not only highlights Lactococcus cremoris FBMS_5810 as a promising candidate but also provides a systematic approach for the identification and validation of probiotics, advancing both fundamental understanding and translational applications in molecular microbiology.