Chemo-Enzymatically Modified Cereal Brans as a Modulator of Healthy Gut Bacteria: An In-Vitro and In-Vivo Study

Finger millet, kodo millet, and rice bran were chemo-enzymatically modified, and their prebiotic potential was evaluated using in-vitro human fecal batch fermentation and in-vivo feeding to mice. Modified cereal bran (mCB) from finger millet, kodo millet, and rice bran contained 30%, 17%, and 24% higher content of dietary fiber compared to their respective native bran. Tannin, flavonoids, polyphenols, and phytate content were reduced in the mCBs. Fecal batch fermentation with mCBs enhanced the short-chain fatty acid levels and the abundance of selected gut bacteria such as Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus, and Bacteroidetes along with propionate and butyrate. In-vivo experiments showed no change in weight gain, blood glucose, and serum lipids. mCB supplementation enhanced the abundance of selected bacteria such as Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus, and Bacteroidetes and decreased the abundance of E. coli, Klebsiella, and Clostridium. These findings provide an insight into the functional food potential of valorized mCBs in maintaining a healthy gut environment.