YT640 and inulin
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain YT640 is a lactic acid bacterium isolated from fecal samples of healthy piglets during the pre- and post-weaning stages. This strain demonstrates exceptional inulin fermentation capabilities, achieving rapid growth (OD600 > 2.4) and complete utilization of long-chain inulin within 12 hours, accompanied by pH reduction to 4.2. Genomic analysis revealed 46 glycoside hydrolase (GH) genes, including fosE and sacA, encoding beta-fructofuranosidase and fructan beta-fructosidase enzymes critical for inulin degradation. Two distinct inulin metabolic pathways were identified: 1) the fosRABCDXE operon, mediating extracellular hydrolysis of inulin and subsequent fructose metabolism, and 2) the sacPTS1 cluster, enabling oligofructose transport and intracellular hydrolysis. Strain YT640 exhibits potent probiotic properties, including inhibition of enteric pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Clostridium perfringens) and antioxidant activity. These traits, combined with its efficient inulin utilization, position L. plantarum YT640 as a promising candidate for synbiotic feed formulations to improve gut health and mitigate post-weaning diarrhea in piglets. The genomic and functional data provided herein support its potential application as a non-antibiotic alternative in swine production systems.