Enhanced Iron Absorption and Gut Health System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An innovative system for improving iron absorption and gut health through targeted release of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 in the small intestine, enhancing symbiotic growth with prebiotic fibers, and utilizing iron chelates for optimal supplementation.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837, methods for using the same, and iron supplement composition having the same, has limitations in terms of iron absorption and gut health. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by providing a more efficient and targeted approach to iron supplementation and gut microbiota enhancement.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a system for improving iron absorption and gut health, which includes a probiotic composition of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 encapsulated in a pH-sensitive coating for targeted release in the small intestine. Additionally, the system involves administering a combination of the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 with a prebiotic fiber to promote symbiotic growth. The system also utilizes an iron chelate, selected from the group consisting of ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferric citrate, to enhance iron absorption. Furthermore, the system can be prepared through a process involving fermenting the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 in a medium containing an iron source, and then freeze-drying the fermented medium.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims provide a novel and non-obvious approach to iron supplementation and gut health by targeting the release of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 in the small intestine, enhancing symbiotic growth with prebiotic fibers, and utilizing iron chelates. These features distinguish the new inventive concept from the original patent and provide a significant improvement in iron absorption and gut health.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the type of prebiotic fiber used, modifying the pH-sensitive coating to optimize release in the small intestine, or utilizing different iron chelates to enhance absorption. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in different populations, such as pediatric or geriatric populations, or for use in conjunction with other nutritional supplements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced iron absorption and gut health system has significant commercial potential in the nutritional supplement industry, particularly in the areas of probiotics and iron supplementation. The system could be marketed as a premium product for individuals seeking to improve their iron levels and overall gut health, with potential applications in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Microbiology, Probiotics, and Nutritional Supplementation, with expertise in bacterial strain development, microbiome interactions, and iron absorption technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A researcher or practitioner with advanced degree in microbiology or nutritional sciences, familiar with probiotic strain characterization, microbiological fermentation techniques, and nutritional supplement formulation strategies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD represents predictable variations on the source patent's core technology of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837 for iron absorption. The disclosed modifications such as pH-sensitive encapsulation, prebiotic combination, and iron chelate selection represent standard optimization techniques within probiotic supplement development. These variations would be considered routine engineering adaptations that a skilled practitioner would readily conceive when seeking to improve the original iron supplementation method.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,583 |
|---|---|
| Title | Lactiplantibacillus plantarum TCI837, methods for using the same, and iron supplement composition having the same |
| Assignee(s) | TCI CO., LTD. |