# Abiogen (Bacillus subtilis natto) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/abiogen **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-29 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Other **Also Known As:** Bacillus subtilis var. natto, Bacillus natto, Natto bacteria extract, Fermented soybean extract, Nattokinase supplement, B. subtilis natto, Natto-derived nattokinase, Japanese natto enzyme, Fibrinolytic enzyme complex ## Overview Bacillus subtilis natto is a [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) strain that produces nattokinase, a fibrinolytic enzyme that breaks down blood clots by hydrolyzing fibrin proteins. This strain supports [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) through its clot-dissolving activity and provides digestive benefits as a beneficial bacteria. ## Health Benefits • Fibrinolytic activity: Contains nattokinase which directly hydrolyzes fibrin and plasmin substrates to dissolve blood clots (in vitro evidence only) • [Cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) support: Traditional use suggests benefits for heart health through clot-dissolving activity (traditional evidence only) • Gastrointestinal stability: Nattokinase remains stable in the digestive tract enabling oral thrombolytic potential (mechanistic evidence only) • Nutrient utilization: γ-PGA component promotes enhanced nutrient absorption through viscosity modulation (in vitro evidence only) • Metabolic modulation: γ-PGA influences TCA cycle enzymes and proline synthesis pathways (mechanistic evidence only) ## Mechanism of Action Bacillus subtilis natto produces nattokinase enzyme during fermentation, which exhibits fibrinolytic activity by directly cleaving fibrin and plasmin substrates in blood clots. The nattokinase enzyme breaks down cross-linked fibrin networks through serine protease activity, potentially improving blood flow. As a [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), B. subtilis natto may also support gut health by producing beneficial metabolites and competing with pathogenic bacteria. ## Clinical Summary Clinical evidence for Bacillus subtilis natto specifically is limited, with most research focused on nattokinase extracted from natto foods. Small human studies on nattokinase supplements (100-2000 FU daily) have shown modest improvements in [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and circulation markers. However, these studies typically used purified nattokinase rather than the live bacterial strain. Current evidence consists primarily of in vitro fibrinolytic activity studies and traditional use data from natto consumption. ## Nutritional Profile Abiogen is a standardized Bacillus subtilis natto fermentation-derived ingredient, primarily characterized by its enzymatic content rather than conventional macronutrient profile. Key bioactive component: Nattokinase (subtilisin NAT, EC 3.4.21.62) — typically standardized to fibrinolytic units (FU), commonly 1,000–20,000 FU per gram depending on preparation. Protein content: predominantly enzymatic protein (serine protease) comprising the bulk of the active fraction; exact percentage varies by preparation but fermented natto biomass is roughly 18–20% protein by dry weight. The nattokinase enzyme itself has a molecular weight of approximately 27.7 kDa. Bioactive compounds also include vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7, MK-7) as a co-produced metabolite of B. subtilis natto fermentation, typically in the range of 500–1,000 mcg per 100g of fermented biomass, though concentration in isolated enzyme preparations is markedly lower. Polyglutamic acid (a natural biopolymer) may be present as a fermentation byproduct. Minimal carbohydrate and fat content expected in purified enzyme concentrates. Bioavailability note: Nattokinase demonstrates documented resistance to gastric acid and pepsin degradation, with studies indicating partial survival through the GI tract; absorption of intact enzyme has been demonstrated in animal models with detectable fibrinolytic activity in plasma. [Probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)-associated metabolites (short-chain fatty acids, B vitamins including biotin and riboflavin) may be present at trace levels from the bacterial biomass. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as no human trials have been conducted. Production studies show nattokinase activity up to 1388 U/g and γ-PGA up to 358.5 g/kg in fermentation, but no standardized dosing for human consumption is established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Bacillus subtilis natto is generally recognized as safe when consumed in fermented foods, but supplement safety data is limited. It may increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant medications like warfarin or heparin due to nattokinase's fibrinolytic activity. Individuals with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery should avoid use. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established, and mild digestive upset may occur during initial [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) supplementation. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses were found for Abiogen or Bacillus subtilis natto in the available research. Current evidence is limited to in vitro enzyme activity studies and fermentation production mechanisms. ## Historical & Cultural Context Bacillus subtilis natto has been used in Japanese traditional medicine through natto fermentation for centuries, valued for its viscosity, aroma, and fibrinolytic properties. Historical texts like 'On the Preparation of Natto' from the early 20th century documented optimization of strains for natto production, primarily as a functional food with implied [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits. ## Synergistic Combinations Vitamin K2, Fish Oil, Garlic Extract, Ginkgo Biloba, Turmeric ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much nattokinase does Bacillus subtilis natto produce? Nattokinase production varies significantly based on fermentation conditions, typically ranging from 100-2000 fibrinolytic units per gram of fermented product. Commercial supplements standardize nattokinase content, while live bacterial cultures produce variable amounts. ### Can Bacillus subtilis natto survive stomach acid? Bacillus subtilis forms protective spores that can survive harsh stomach acid conditions and germinate in the intestinal tract. This spore-forming ability makes it more resistant to gastric environments compared to non-sporing probiotic bacteria like Lactobacillus. ### How long does it take for Bacillus subtilis natto to work? Fibrinolytic effects from nattokinase production may begin within 2-8 hours of consumption and peak around 13 hours. However, sustained cardiovascular benefits typically require consistent daily supplementation for 4-8 weeks according to clinical studies. ### Is Bacillus subtilis natto the same as regular natto food? Bacillus subtilis natto is the specific bacterial strain used to ferment soybeans into traditional natto food. Supplements contain either the live bacteria or extracted nattokinase enzyme, while natto food provides the complete fermented product with additional nutrients. ### What foods naturally contain Bacillus subtilis natto? Traditional Japanese natto is the primary food source, made by fermenting boiled soybeans with Bacillus subtilis natto culture. Some fermented soy products and specialty probiotic foods may also contain this strain, though natto remains the most concentrated natural source. ### Does Abiogen (Bacillus subtilis natto) interact with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin? Abiogen contains nattokinase, which has fibrinolytic properties that may have additive effects with anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. Individuals taking warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before using Abiogen to avoid potential bleeding complications. Clinical safety data specifically examining these interactions remains limited. ### Is Abiogen safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? There is insufficient clinical data on the safety of Abiogen during pregnancy and lactation. Due to nattokinase's fibrinolytic mechanism and potential blood-thinning effects, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Abiogen unless explicitly approved by their healthcare provider. Safety in these populations has not been adequately studied. ### What is the difference between Abiogen and generic Bacillus subtilis natto supplements? Abiogen is a branded form of Bacillus subtilis natto that may utilize proprietary fermentation, stabilization, or standardization processes to optimize nattokinase activity and shelf-stability. Generic versions may vary in nattokinase potency, viability, and consistency depending on manufacturing standards. The specific formulation advantages of Abiogen over generic natto products are not independently verified in published research. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*