| Description | Extibacter muris is a nonsporulating, anaerobic microbe that plays a significant role in bile acid metabolism, specifically in the production of secondary bile acids through a process known as 7-dehydroxylation. As a chemoheterotroph, this bacterium derives its energy from organic compounds, thriving in various habitats, particularly those associated with the gastrointestinal tracts of mammals, including humans. These environments provide a rich source of nutrients and a suitable anaerobic atmosphere necessary for its metabolic processes. Despite its nonsporulating nature, Extibacter muris exhibits remarkable adaptability within the complex microbial ecosystems found in the gut. Its ability to metabolize bile acids contributes to the modification of the gut microbiome and plays a crucial role in maintaining intestinal health and homeostasis. Secondary bile acids, produced through its metabolic activities, have been shown to influence lipid metabolism and modulate the immune response, further underscoring the microbe's significance in gut physiology. The unique ecological insight into Extibacter muris is its potential impact on host health through bile acid modification. This process not only affects the absorption of dietary fats but also has implications for the development of certain diseases, including colorectal cancer. Understanding the contributions of Extibacter muris within the gut microbiome could pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches targeting bile acid-mediated pathways in metabolic disorders. |
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