| Description | Faecalibacterium tardum is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped anaerobic bacterium predominantly found in the human gut. This microbe plays a significant role in gut health and homeostasis by utilizing starch as a primary energy source. During its metabolic processes, it produces beneficial metabolites such as butyrate, glutamate, riboflavin, and cobalamin, all of which contribute to various physiological functions. Butyrate, one of the key short-chain fatty acids produced by F. tardum, is essential for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier and serves as an energy source for colonocytes, fostering a balanced gut microbiome. Glutamate, another metabolite, plays a critical role in neurotransmission and is involved in various metabolic pathways. Similarly, riboflavin and cobalamin are vital cofactors for numerous enzymatic reactions in cellular metabolism and contribute to overall host health. Faecalibacterium tardum is typically abundant in the gut microbiota of healthy individuals, underscoring its importance in the maintenance of gut health and the prevention of various gastrointestinal disorders. Decreased levels of this microbe have been associated with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and obesity, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of these disorders. Moreover, the presence of F. tardum has been linked to the modulation of the immune response, highlighting its importance beyond mere digestion. Its ability to thrive in the anaerobic environment of the human gut and contribute to metabolic processes positions it as a crucial player in maintaining gut homeostasis and overall health. These attributes underscore the potential utility of Faecalibacterium tardum in future therapeutic interventions targeting gut-related health issues. |
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