What’s behind the benefits of the probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila?

Though discovered quite late, in 2004, Akkermansia muciniphila is actually one of the first bacteria to colonise the human digestive tract (1), and one of the most abundant - it represents almost 1% of the microorganisms in the microbiota (2). It has the particular feature of ‘feeding on’ mucins, the lubricating proteins which make up the protective mucus lining of the gut.

A number of studies have demonstrated a link between its abundance in the microbiota and the maintenance of good health in humans (3). Research is ongoing to better understand this relationship, but early results suggest that Akkermansia muciniphila activates numerous receptors in the gut barrier, which may help strengthen it and make it less permeable.

This benefit could be valuable in combatting metabolic syndrome, primarily characterised by a large waist circumference (due to excess abdominal weight), hypertension and abnormal fasting blood sugar levels.

What is the relationship between metabolic syndrome and strengthening the gut barrier?

Strengthening the intestinal barrier helps prevent lipopolysaccharides (LPS) migrating from the gut to the bloodstream, as well as obesity-related inflammation. This results in decreases in both the inflammatory tone of adipose tissue, and insulin resistance, and thus improves how the body stores sugar.