Microbiology: Categorize probiotics to speed research

Authors

M. B. Habash, The University of Western Ontario
H. C. Van Der Mei, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen
H. J. Busscher, The University of Western Ontario
G. Reid, The University of Western Ontario

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-15-2000

Journal

Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces

Volume

19

Issue

1

First Page

13

Last Page

17

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1016/S0927-7765(00)00131-4

Abstract

Zeta potential distributions of five uropathogens were measured in urines collected after increased water intake, consumption of cranberry supplements, or intake of ascorbic acid by volunteers. Zeta potentials of bacteria in urine from ascorbic acid consumption shifted towards less negative values due to pH changes. Cranberry supplementation caused a shift in zeta potential distribution in a more positive direction possibly due to fructose and tannin metabolites, which are known to influence bacterial adhesion. The most negatively charged sub-populations of bacteria disappeared after increased water intake, believed to be caused by dilution of Tamm Horsfall Protein (THP). It is concluded that THP may adsorb to uropathogen cell surfaces to yield a more negative zeta potential, which thereby reduces uropathogen adhesion to surfaces through electrostatic repulsion. The ability to alter uropathogen cell surface properties by delivery of functional foods could have clinical significance in the pathogenesis and prevention of urinary tract infections. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd.