Roseburia intestinalis
Roseburia intestinalis: A Key Player in Gut Health
Description
Roseburia intestinalis is a beneficial bacterium that resides in the human gut microbiome. It belongs to the Firmicutes phylum and is characterized by its ability to break down complex carbohydrates into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
SCFAs, such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate, are essential for various physiological processes, including gut barrier function, immune modulation, and energy metabolism.
Associated Diseases
Dysbiosis in the gut microbiome, characterized by an imbalance in the population of beneficial and harmful bacteria, has been implicated in numerous diseases. Alterations in the abundance or activity of R. intestinalis have been associated with:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): R. intestinalis levels are often decreased in patients with IBD, and its supplementation has shown promising results in reducing inflammation and improving disease symptoms.
- Obesity: Reduced R. intestinalis abundance is associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Studies suggest that R. intestinalis may play a role in regulating energy metabolism and glucose homeostasis.
- Type 2 Diabetes: R. intestinalis is involved in improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Cardiovascular Disease: SCFAs produced by R. intestinalis have anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects, which may protect against heart disease.
Did you Know ?
R. intestinalis is one of the most abundant bacterial species in the healthy human gut, accounting for approximately 5% of the total microbiome.
