The proprietary and patented probiotic found in ZBiotics' Pre-Alcohol product is a genetically engineered strain called Bacillus subtilis ZB183™. This unique strain was developed by microbiologists with a specific function in mind: to help break down acetaldehyde in the gut. Acetaldehyde is a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism that can accumulate in the gut and contribute to discomfort after drinking. By producing the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), similar to what the liver uses, this engineered probiotic assists in clearing acetaldehyde from the gut. This development highlights the potential of synthetic biology, with ZBiotics emphasizing a science-first approach.
The Science Behind Bacillus subtilis ZB183™
ZBiotics created Bacillus subtilis ZB183™ using a well-established probiotic bacterium, Bacillus subtilis, which is commonly used in foods like natto. Through a precise genetic engineering technique called homologous recombination, scientists modified the bacteria to consistently produce high levels of the ALDH enzyme. ALDH is crucial because it converts acetaldehyde into harmless acetate.
How the Engineered Probiotic Works in the Body
- Oral Delivery: The probiotic is consumed in a dormant state (endospore) which protects it through the stomach.
- Activation in the Gut: In the gut, the bacteria become active.
- Enzyme Production: Activated Bacillus subtilis ZB183™ starts producing the engineered ALDH enzyme.
- Acetaldehyde Breakdown: The ALDH enzyme breaks down acetaldehyde in the gut.
- Excretion: The probiotic and its byproducts exit the body naturally within 18-24 hours without permanently changing the gut microbiome.
ZBiotics vs. Conventional Probiotics
ZBiotics' engineered probiotic offers a different approach compared to traditional probiotics aimed at general gut health. Below is a comparison of Bacillus subtilis ZB183™ and typical probiotic strains:
| Feature | ZBiotics' Bacillus subtilis ZB183™ | Conventional Probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Produces a specific enzyme (ALDH) to actively break down acetaldehyde in the gut. | Introduce beneficial live bacteria to support a healthy and balanced gut microbiome. |
| Function | Engineered for one defined function related to alcohol metabolism; designed for use before drinking. | Supports general digestive and immune health; not targeted for specific metabolic byproducts. |
| Genetic Engineering | Genetically engineered to enhance enzyme production; not considered "natural" in the colloquial sense. | Naturally occurring bacterial strains; not genetically modified. |
| Impact on Microbiome | Passes through the gut without permanently changing the resident microbiome. | Designed to colonize and potentially alter the composition of the resident microbiome. |
| Regulatory Status | Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) through expert review and FDA-compliant. | Widely accepted as safe for food and supplement use, but typically not engineered for specific functions. |
Why Acetaldehyde is the Primary Target
Acetaldehyde is a chemical produced during alcohol metabolism and is more toxic than alcohol itself, significantly contributing to the unpleasant effects after drinking. While the liver processes acetaldehyde, the gut can accumulate it. ZBiotics targets this gut accumulation to help break down the compound locally. This specific solution to a specific problem is supported by peer-reviewed research.
Conclusion: A New Era of Targeted Probiotics
The probiotic in ZBiotics' Pre-Alcohol drink is the genetically engineered Bacillus subtilis ZB183™. Its ability to produce acetaldehyde dehydrogenase in the gut sets it apart from traditional probiotics. This enzyme-producing function provides a targeted method for addressing a toxic byproduct of alcohol consumption. ZBiotics uses synthetic biology with a safe probiotic base to create a functional food aiming to address a specific issue with scientific precision.
