Integrated genomic and functional characterization of Luoshenia tenuis strain 182, a novel human gut isolate of the family Christensenellaceae

Abstract Background Members of the family Christensenellaceae are increasingly associated with host metabolic health, including recently described and less characterized genus Luoshenia . In this study, we present the genomic and functional characterization of Luoshenia tenuis strain 182, a novel human gut commensal isolated from a healthy fecal donor. To study its ecological adaptation and interactions with the host epithelium, we combined in silico genomic analyses with in vitro functional assays. Results Genomic analysis revealed an open pangenome within the Christensenellaceae family and substantial genetic plasticity across the dataset. The combined results from the pangenome and comparative genomic analyses identified 106 genes unique to strain 182, highlighting potential strain-specific functional adaptations. The strain demonstrated susceptibility to several clinically relevant antibiotics and absence of key virulence factors, indicating low pathogenic potential. Strain 182 exhibited adaptive traits supporting gut survival, including high tolerance to bile salts and growth after transient oxygen exposure, as well as evidence of sporulation. The in vitro host–microbe interactions of L. tenuis strain 182 showed commensal activity as the strain did not induce proinflammatory responses in intestinal epithelial cells, did not compromise epithelial barrier integrity and displayed adhesion to epithelial cells and mucus. This is the first study to examine the epithelial interactions of genus Luoshenia and compare Luoshenia genus to the Christensenellaceae genomes using pangenome analysis. While anti-inflammatory effects were not observed, in vitro functional analyses revealed capacity to bind cholesterol and potential to reduce cholesterol uptake by Caco-2 cells. Conclusions In summary, L. tenuis strain 182 demonstrates gut environmental adaptability and strain-specific metabolic features. The strain can be considered to have a favorable safety profile. The results of this study serve as a basis for further investigation of the potential role of strain 182 in gut lipid metabolism and possible therapeutic applications.