Verb Biotics’ Keystone Postbiotic, a formulation of probiotic strains fermented on oats with an optional grape seed extract, may support immune function, according to new preclinical findings reported by the company.
 
The company conducted in vitro and preliminary human studies in order to understand how the selected active components in Keystone Postbiotic could contribute to the balance of the gut microbiome and regulate immune function.
 
Data from the studies showed that overlapping functions of the inactivated microbes, grains, and plant extract could increase populations of key bacteria important in overall gut microbiome health; enhance the production of short-chain fatty acids that supported intestinal epithelial health; and regulate levels of cytokines, which are the signaling proteins that modulate immune response and are involved in gut barrier function.
 
In the preclinical studies, Keystone Postbiotic increased endogenous Bifidobacteria in human stool by more than 50 times compared to a control group. With grapeseed extract included, Bifidobacteria increased by 300 times compared to control. In human fecal samples, butyrate levels significantly increased in subjects who followed a western diet. Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid which has inflammatory-modulating properties, and is evidenced to tighten the intestinal barrier to support intestinal epithelial health and promote microbial diversity.
 
 “We have generated exciting data demonstrating the ability of Keystone Postbiotic to not only support vital members of the microbiome but also strengthen the integrity of the gut lining. By combining overlapping mechanisms of action, Keystone will provide a benefit to a broader range of people compared to using only a single MOA,” said Noah Zimmerman, chief technology officer at Verb Biotics.
 
The preclinical data contributed to the company’s decision to begin human clinical studies earlier this year, to evaluate the potential role that Keystone Postbiotic might play in supporting markers of foundational gut microbiome health, with results from the clinical studies expected to be released by this summer.
 
“The advent of efficacious postbiotics opens the door to greater product applications compared to live probiotics. Keystone Postbiotics’ high stability enables substantial innovation for functional food and beverage brands as well as dietary supplement formats such as gummies and powders,” Todd Beckman, chief executive officer of Verb Biotics.