Microencapsulation of Lactobacillus plantarum FNCC 0026: Physical properties of microcapsules and antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistance organism (MDRO)

This study aimed to evaluate the microparticle system of Lactobacillus plantarum FNCC 0026 in an optimal combination of a gelatin-alginate matrix. Four formulas with a variation of 2.5% alginate-gelatin polymer combination were encapsulated using the aerosolization technique. Microcapsule physical properties such as morphology, particle size distribution, swelling index, % mπoisture content, structural analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), as well as probiotic viability and antimicrobial activity in the matrix were investigated to evaluate the formulation. All formulations showed similarly uniform, spherical microparticles dispersed without agglomeration. The increased gelation concentration was accompanied by structural compactness as observed by scanning electron microscopy. Compared to free cells, the antibacterial activity increased against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and the inhibitory ability of microspheres against Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli. decreased. Under acidic conditions, gelatin can maintain the integrity of the capsule characterized by the absence of bacterial growth. Also, in alkaline conditions, the matrix swells well and has probiotic antibacterial activity. When stored, the microparticles could maintain probiotic function for up to 45 days. And from these studies, alginate gelatin matrix microspheres may form suitable capsules for Lactobacillus plantarum and probiotics could play an optimal role in inhibiting the growth of MRSA and ESBL E. coli.