| Description | Bacteroides acidifaciens is a Gram-negative, bacilli-shaped, nonsporulating bacterium that plays a significant role in the gastrointestinal microbiome of mammals, particularly in humans. As a mesophilic organism, it thrives optimally at 37°C, making it well-suited to the warm, nutrient-rich environment of the intestinal tract. Bacteroides acidifaciens is a chemoheterotroph that relies on fermentative metabolism, and it is known for its ability to degrade mucin, a glycoprotein component of mucus, thereby contributing to the maintenance of gut health. This microbe produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) during fermentation, which are vital for colonic health and have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, Bacteroides acidifaciens is involved in indole production, further influencing the gut microbiota composition and metabolic processes. Its anaerobic nature allows it to thrive in environments devoid of oxygen, making it a key constituent of the gut microbiome, where it outcompetes many pathogenic bacteria. Ecologically, Bacteroides acidifaciens exemplifies the complex interplay between host and microbiota, as it not only aids in the digestion of complex carbohydrates but also modulates intestinal inflammation and immune responses, indicating its potential role in maintaining homeostasis within the gut ecosystem. Its presence and activity may significantly influence overall health, underscoring the importance of this microbe in dietary studies and therapeutic approaches for gastrointestinal disorders. |
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