| Description | Bacteroides fragilis NCTC 9343 is an obligate anaerobe, a chemoheterotroph that produces energy through fermentation, is Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and resides primarily in the human colon and other body sites including the mouth, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract.As an obligate anaerobe, Bacteroides fragilis thrives in oxygen-free environments, which is characteristic of the human gut where oxygen levels are minimal. Its ability to ferment complex carbohydrates allows it to derive energy from various organic compounds, making it a chemoheterotroph; it relies on organic molecules from the host or dietary sources for growth. The Gram-negative classification indicates that it has a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, which contributes to its resistance to certain antibiotics and environmental stresses. Its rod shape facilitates motility and colonization within the complex gut microbiota. Bacteroides fragilis plays a critical role in maintaining gut health by aiding in the digestion of complex polysaccharides and synthesizing essential vitamins such as vitamin K and some B vitamins. It also contributes to the immune system's development and function, acting as a barrier to pathogenic microorganisms. However, it can become opportunistic in cases where the intestinal barrier is compromised, leading to infections in other body sites, including abscesses and bacteremia. Notably, Bacteroides fragilis is a significant component of the human microbiome, highlighting the delicate balance of commensal and pathogenic interactions within the body. Its genomic adaptability allows it to thrive in various environments, making it a subject of interest in research related to gut health, antibiotic resistance, and microbiome studies. |
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