Bacteroidaceae
Bacteroidaceae: Essential Players in the Gut Microbiome
Description
Bacteroidaceae is a family of Gram-negative, anaerobic bacteria that are ubiquitous inhabitants of the human gut microbiome. As one of the most abundant bacterial families in the gut, they play crucial roles in maintaining intestinal health and preventing disease. Bacteroidaceae bacteria are rod-shaped and non-motile, and they ferment carbohydrates to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which provide energy for colonocytes and have numerous health benefits.
Associated Diseases
While Bacteroidaceae are generally considered beneficial bacteria, they have also been implicated in certain diseases when their populations become dysregulated. These diseases include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Reduced levels of Bacteroidaceae have been associated with IBD, particularly Crohn‘s disease.
- Obesity: Increased levels of Bacteroidaceae have been linked to obesity and insulin resistance.
- Type 2 diabetes: Dysbiosis of Bacteroidaceae in the gut has been associated with increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 30% of the bacteria in the human gut microbiome belong to the Bacteroidaceae family. This staggering number highlights the immense importance of these bacteria in maintaining gut health.
