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Review
. 2016 Jul;9(4):441-51.
doi: 10.1111/1751-7915.12335. Epub 2015 Dec 21.

Lactic acid bacteria as a cell factory for riboflavin production

Kiran Thakur  1 , Sudhir Kumar Tomar  1 , Sachinandan De  2
Affiliations
Review

Lactic acid bacteria as a cell factory for riboflavin production

Kiran Thakur et al. Microb Biotechnol. 2016 Jul.

Abstract

Consumers are increasingly becoming aware of their health and nutritional requirements, and in this context, vitamins produced in situ by microbes may suit their needs and expectations. B groups vitamins are essential components of cellular metabolism and among them riboflavin is one of the vital vitamins required by bacteria, plants, animals and humans. Here, we focus on the importance of microbial production of riboflavin over chemical synthesis. In addition, genetic abilities for riboflavin biosynthesis by lactic acid bacteria are discussed. Genetically modified strains by employing genetic engineering and chemical analogues have been developed to enhance riboflavin production. The present review attempts to collect the currently available information on riboflavin production by microbes in general, while placing greater emphasis on food grade lactic acid bacteria and human gut commensals. For designing riboflavin-enriched functional foods, proper selection and exploitation of riboflavin-producing lactic acid bacteria is essential. Moreover, eliminating the in situ vitamin fortification step will decrease the cost of food production.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Advantages of microbes as cell factories for vitamin synthesis.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Regulation of riboflavin biosynthesis genes in Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Riboflavin biosynthesis pathway in bacteria.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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