Single-cell based Mechanistic Analysis and Efficacy Evaluation of Kimchi Probiotics in Human Biomimetic Systems
Keyword Keywords
OBJECTIVE Objective
This project aims to define the molecular mechanisms of kimchi probiotics by combining intestinal organoid systems with single cell RNA sequencing and to establish a standardized functional database for training the Lacto AI prediction model.
We will analyze high-dimensional single-cell data generated from probiotic-treated intestinal organoids to identify cell-type-specific responses, functional pathways, differentiation trajectories, and cell-cell interactions. By converting genomic, transcriptomic, and functional readouts into AI-ready standardized datasets, the project will improve the accuracy and speed of promising kimchi probiotic screening and strengthen the competitiveness of Korean microbiome and pharmabiotics industries.
INTRODUCTION Message from the Principal Investigator
Greetings.
Director of the Digital Bio Research Center.
Kimchi probiotics are valuable biological resources unique to Korea, but their industrial translation requires rigorous scientific evidence explaining how they act in human-relevant intestinal environments.
Our research team integrates intestinal organoids, single-cell transcriptomics, and AI modeling to resolve the mechanisms of kimchi probiotics at cellular and molecular resolution and to connect these findings to the Lacto-AI functional prediction platform.
By combining the expertise of GIST in single cell AI analytics with the probiotic resources and validation platforms of the World Institute of Kimchi, we aim to generate academic advances, public data assets, and next generation biohealth technologies that can support industry and society.
Thank you.
IMPACT Expected Impact
This project will increase the resolution and reliability of microbiome functional evaluation by moving beyond bulk-level assays and defining the mechanisms of kimchi probiotics at single-cell resolution.
The standardized functional database will serve as a core training asset for Lacto AI and will accelerate screening of the large-scale probiotic library at the World Institute of Kimchi while reducing the time and cost required for candidate validation.
By disseminating the resulting datasets and analytical pipelines as public data assets and open-source resources, the project will support broad academic and industrial use and promote technology transfer toward health functional foods, pharmabiotics, and personalized digital health applications.
The project will also train postdoctoral and graduate-level experts who can bridge single-cell omics, AI, organoid biology, and microbiome science.
TALENT Ideal Talent Profile
The research team seeks to train interdisciplinary researchers who can connect single-cell omics, computational biology, AI modeling, intestinal organoid systems, and microbiome biology.
Core competencies include quality control and standardization of large-scale transcriptomic data, construction of functional databases, interpretation of AI-based prediction models, and feedback of biological validation results into analytical pipelines.
We also value collaborative leadership between GIST and the World Institute of Kimchi, a commitment to reproducible research, responsible data sharing and technology dissemination, and the communication and leadership skills required to grow as independent scientists.