The gut is not only a vital organ for nutrient absorption but also a primary immune organ, playing a pivotal role in animal growth and health. Enhancing gut health by modulating the microbiota with probiotics is a well-established strategy, especially in the era of reduced antibiotic use in animal husbandry.
Traditionally, spore-forming Bacillus strains have dominated the probiotic market due to their robust storage and processing properties, along with their ability to produce acetic and lactic acids. However, Bacillus strains often struggle to thrive in the anaerobic environments of the animal gut, limiting their efficacy.
Recognizing this limitation, BiomiXin set out to identify probiotics capable of thriving in anaerobic conditions while producing unique short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) to provide comprehensive gut protection. This search led to the development of ML2, a high-butyric-acid-producing Clostridium butyricum strain.
Clostridium butyricum: The Probiotic Powerhouse
Clostridium butyricum, commonly referred to as “Miyarisan bacteria” after its discovery by Dr. Kinji Miyairi(宮入近治) of Chiba University, has gained global recognition for its unique ability to produce butyric acid. This SCFA is pivotal for colonic cell metabolism, anti-inflammatory effects, and strengthening gut barrier function.
Miyarisan (CBM588), one of the most popular Clostridium butyricum strains, is widely used across Japan, South Korea, and other regions for its proven efficacy in treating gastrointestinal disorders, including antibiotic-associated colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic diarrhea.
BiomiXin’s ML2 Strain: A New Benchmark
In collaboration with National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, BiomiXin initiated research in 2016 to screen SCFA-producing bacteria and optimize their cultivation. Among over 200 isolates, the ML2 strain was identified for its exceptional butyric acid production, outperforming the established CBM 588 strain by 1.3 times under identical conditions.
Animal trials with the ML2 strain showcased its transformative benefits for gut health. Piglets fed with ML2-supplemented feed exhibited a marked reduction in pathogenic E. coli populations while simultaneously fostering an increase in beneficial microbes like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. The trials also revealed improvements in gut morphology, as evidenced by enhanced crypt-to-villus ratios, a critical indicator of superior nutrient absorption and intestinal health. These findings underscore ML2’s dual ability to optimize gut microbiota and promote intestinal structural integrity, solidifying its reputation as a probiotic with exceptional functional properties.
Additionally, Clostridium butyricum’s unique characteristics make it a standout in the probiotic market:
🌟Survives stomach acid (pH 1–2) and proliferates in the gut.
🌟Retains viability at 55°C.
🌟Effective alongside antibiotics, preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
🌟Promotes villus growth and improves FCR.
🌟Boost immune system by activating macrophages, natural killer cells, and regulatory T cells.
🌟Alleviates allergic responses through regulatory T-cell stimulation.
🌟Mucosal Defense by preventing leaky gut and respiratory infections.
🌟Supports beneficial gut microbiota while suppressing harmful pathogens.
Overcoming Production Challenges & Promising Vision
Despite its potential, Clostridium butyricum poses significant production challenges due to its obligatory anaerobic nature. Supported by Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture, BiomiXin partnered with Pingtung University to develop an innovative bio-deoxygenation method. This approach minimizes resource consumption and environmental impact, enabling sustainable mass production of the ML2 strain.
BiomiXin’s ML2 strain represents a significant breakthrough in animal gut health, setting a new standard with its exceptional probiotic properties and high butyric acid production. By establishing Taiwan’s first mass-production of Clostridium butyricum, BiomiXin demonstrates its unwavering commitment to pioneering innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of modern animal husbandry.
As we look to the future, BiomiXin remains dedicated to driving innovation, fostering healthier animals, and contributing to a more sustainable agricultural industry worldwide.
