Exploring the modulatory effect of trehalose-derived galactooligosaccharides on key gut microbiota groups

Trehalose (alpha- D -glucopyranosyl-(1-1)-alpha-D-glucopyranoside) has found applications in diverse food products as a sweetener, stabilizer, and humectant. Recent attention has focused on trehalose due to its contradictory effects on the virulence of Clostridium difficile . In this study, we investigate the impact of novel trehalose-derived galactooligosaccharides (Treh -GOS) on the human gut microbiota using in vitro fecal fermentation models. Distinct Treh -GOS structures elicit varying taxonomic responses. For instance, 8-Gal-(1-4)-trehalose [DP3(1-4)] leads to an increase of Bifidobacterium , comparable to results observed with commercial GOS. Conversely, 8-Gal-(1-6)trehalose [DP3(1-6)] prompts an increase in Lactobacillus . Notably, both of these trisaccharides yield the highest concentrations of butyric acid across all samples. On the other hand, Treh -GOS tetrasaccharide mixture (DP4), featuring a novel trehalose galactosylation in both glucose units, fosters the growth of Parabacteroides . Our findings underscore the capacity of novel Treh -GOS to modulate the human gut microbiota. Consequently, these innovative galactooligosaccharides emerge as promising candidates for novel prebiotic applications.