Research Progress on Characteristics of Bifidobacterial Exopolysaccharides and Their Relationship with Host

Bifidobacterium is one of the major genus in the human intestinal tract with specific strains in this genus having beneficial effects on humans. Exopolysaccharides produced by Bifidobacterium(B-EPS)are closely related to multiple probiotic functions and seem to be critical in understanding the commensalism between bifidobacteria and host. The synthesized genes and structures of B-EPS are highly differentiated within and between species,which can affect the intestinal tolerance and colonization ability of Bifidobacterium,and specifically regulate the intestinal flora and immune response function of host. Thus,in order to provide theoretical guidance for strain screening and the application of B-EPS in the functional food area,this review reviewed the origin and characteristics of structure and composition of B-EPS,focusing on the current research on the relationship between host and B-EPS.