Genomic Characterization and Probiotic Properties of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus Isolated from Fermented Rice

This study focused on a potential probiotic strain of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus (strain krglsrbmofpi2) isolated from traditional fermented rice in India. The study aimed to conduct preliminary genetic and phenotypic characterization. The strain has a genome size of 3.7 Mb, a GC content of 46%, and 3192 protein-coding sequences, as determined by genomic analysis. Subsequently, various bacteriocins, the CRISPR Cas system, phage genes, plasmids, pathogenicity, and antibiotic resistance were identified using bioinformatic methodologies. Biochemical and biophysical examinations improved our understanding of hydrophobicity, antioxidant activity, antibiotic resistance, auto-aggregation, co-aggregation properties, and tolerance to the simulated gastrointestinal condition. The safety assessment of the isolated L. pentosus was evaluated based on the hemolytic activity. The strain has demonstrated strong antibiotic activity against pathogens considered WHO priorities, such as Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica ser. Typhi, Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio cholerae. Our findings suggest that gaining a deep understanding of the genetic and functional characteristics of the L. pentosus strain could pave the way for its application as a beneficial probiotic in the food industry.