Diversity In Genetic And Peptidase Activity Of Lactobacillus Helveticus Strains Biodiversity Of Lactobacillus Helveticus

Lactobacillus helveticus strains are used as starter cultures in the manufacture of fermented milk products. Its growth relies on a complex proteolytic system that includes cell-envelope proteinases and peptidases. The proteolytic systems of only a few strains of L. helveticus in terms of genotype and phenotype have been previously characterized. A phylogenetic configuration, pan/core genome analysis and evaluation of the proteolytic enzymatic activities were done for 50 strains of L. helveticus including 38 isolated in the laboratory and derived from various ecological niches. While the genome sizes ranged from 1.80 to 2.26 Mbp, diversity in aminopeptidase activities was observed among the L. helveticus strains. This study helped show the genetic and phenotypic diversity of L. helveticus isolated from various environments and their potential application in fermented dairy products. More analysis is necessary to better understand the influence of genetic and phenotypic diversity of L. helveticus on its activity in food.