Description | Prevotella copri is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, classified as a Chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites, including the gut, mouth, and skin, across different species. As a Chemoheterotroph, P. copri relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, breaking down complex molecules to sustain its growth. Its rod-shaped morphology allows it to adapt to diverse environments, from the oral cavity to the gastrointestinal tract. P. copri is an Obligate Anaerobe, requiring the absence of oxygen to survive, which is reflected in its prevalence in low-oxygen niches, such as the gut mucosa.The mesophilic temperature preference of P. copri enables it to flourish in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 45°C, making it well-suited to the human body's temperature range. As a Chemoheterotroph, P. copri plays a crucial role in the degradation of complex polysaccharides, contributing to the balance of the gut microbiome. Its presence in various body sites highlights its ability to colonize and adapt to different environments. The Gram-negative cell wall of P. copri provides it with a degree of resistance to environmental stresses, allowing it to persist in the face of competing microorganisms.
P. copri has been implicated in the modulation of the immune system, with studies suggesting that it may influence the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, potentially contributing to the maintenance of immune homeostasis. |
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