Metabolic syndrome is a leading medical concern that affects one billion people worldwide. Metabolic syndrome is defined by a clustering of risk factors that predispose an individual to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke. In recent years, the apparent role of the gut microbiota in metabolic syndrome has drawn attention to microbiome-engineered therapeutics. Specifically, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) harbors beneficial metabolic characteristics, including the production of exopolysaccharides and other microbial byproducts. We recently isolated a novel fructophilic lactic acid bacterium (FLAB), Apilactobacillus waqarii strain HBW1, from honeybee gut and found it produces a dextran-type exopolysaccharide (EPS). The objective of this study was to explore the therapeutic potential of the new dextran in relation to metabolic syndrome. Findings revealed the dextran’s ability to improve the viability of damaged HT-29 intestinal epithelial cells and exhibit antioxidant properties. In vivo analyses demonstrated reductions in body weight gain and serum cholesterol levels in mice supplemented with the dextran, compared to control (5% and 17.2%, respectively). Additionally, blood glucose levels decreased by 16.26% following dextran supplementation, while increasing by 15.2% in non-treated mice. Overall, this study displays biotherapeutic potential of a novel EPS to improve metabolic syndrome and its individual components, warranting further investigation.

Microorganisms synthesize diverse types of exopolysaccharides (EPSs). EPSs with varying structural and physical properties can demonstrate unique health benefits, which allow for their tailored applications as functional foods such as prebiotics. Levan, a fructose-based EPS, is gaining considerable attention as an effective prebiotic to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Consequently, this enhances digestive health, boosts the immune system, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Unfortunately, limited studies are available on levan-type EPSs to demonstrate their role as prebiotics. Therefore, in this study, we conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments, concerning intestinal cell integrity and metabolic syndrome, to assess the therapeutic potential of levan derived from Lactobacillus reuteri FW2. The in vitro experimental results revealed that levan improved the survival of impaired HT-29 epithelial cells of the intestine and also exerted antioxidant effects. In the in vivo experiments, mice fed with levan-supplemented feed exhibited low body weight gain, blood glucose, and serum cholesterol levels compared to the control group. These findings highlight the biotherapeutic potential of L. reuteri FW2-derived levan for improving metabolic syndrome and its associated aspects. It also signifies the need for a further detailed investigation based on clinical trials to include levan in dietary supplements for improved health and well-being.