| Description | Ruminococcus lactaris is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped microbe that belongs to the category of thermophilic microbes, preferring temperatures between 40°C to 60°C. As a chemoheterotroph, Ruminococcus lactaris obtains its energy by oxidizing organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids, which it obtains from its environment. Its energy production process involves the breakdown of these organic compounds for ATP generation through a mechanism of substrate-level phosphorylation. Ruminococcus lactaris is found in various body sites across all species, including the human gut, where it plays a crucial role in the degradation of complex polysaccharides and the production of short-chain fatty acids, contributing to the maintenance of gut health. In terms of oxygen preference, Ruminococcus lactaris is an obligate anaerobe, meaning it cannot survive in the presence of oxygen. This is likely due to its ability to thrive in environments with low or no oxygen availability, such as the gut and other anaerobic niches. One of the key features of Ruminococcus lactaris is its ability to produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that serves as an energy source for the host and has been linked to several health benefits, including improved gut barrier function and reduced inflammation. Ruminococcus lactaris has also been shown to have symbiotic relationships with other microbes in the gut, playing a crucial role in shaping the gut microbiome and influencing various physiological processes. Furthermore, studies have revealed that Ruminococcus lactaris has the ability to modulate the immune system, reducing inflammation and improving immune responses. Its potential use in the development of probiotics and therapeutic applications is currently being explored. |
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