Probiotic and filamentous fungus formulation for blood glucose stabilization in companion animals

Overview

This technology is an oral dietary supplement that combines an Australian filamentous fungus with probiotic bacteria in a low-cost, whey-protein-based carrier. In rat studies, the formulation stabilized blood glucose levels even when animals were fed sugary, gluten-rich pellets. Additional observed benefits included extended lifespan and reduced accumulation of intra-abdominal fat. The solution is positioned for the companion animal nutrition market, with potential relevance for metabolic health, weight management, and healthy aging in pets.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• A microbial blend of an Australian filamentous fungus and probiotic bacteria, cultured and quantified separately before mixing
• A simple carrier system using 5% whey protein, enabling low-concentration and low-cost dosing
• Flexible dosing schedule: three times per week for the first two weeks, then once weekly for maintenance
• Oral delivery format suitable for incorporation into pet food or supplements
• Histopathology-confirmed absence of toxicity signals in rat organs

Observed outcomes in rat model:

• Normal and stable blood glucose levels compared to controls despite sugary, gluten-rich diet
• Extended lifespan
• Reduced intra-abdominal fat accumulation

Future development activities:

• Precision fermentation of microbial constituents
• Optimization of oral delivery compositions
• Animal model testing including biochemistry, haematology, gene expression, and histology
• Transcriptomics of microbial constituents to guide genome reduction and editing for improved ingredient function

Technology readiness level

The formulation has been validated in a rat model, where blood glucose stability and additional health benefits were demonstrated alongside a clean toxicity profile. The next stage of development requires an industry partner to co-develop a feasible commercial formulation and conduct further animal trials using the realistic target species, with the goal of supporting regulatory applications. The proposed program is budgeted at approximately AUD 200,000 per annum over one to two years and would be conducted at Australian universities, tailored to the partner's commercial objectives.