Bacteroidota
Bacteroidota: The Overlooked Gut Giants
Description
Bacteroidota is a phylum of bacteria that comprises a significant portion of the human gut microbiome. These bacteria are anaerobic, meaning they thrive in environments with low oxygen levels, and possess distinctive features that set them apart from other gut microbes. Bacteroidota have a characteristic rod-shaped morphology and a thick cell wall that provides protection against environmental stresses.
Associated Diseases
While Bacteroidota are generally considered beneficial to human health, certain species within this phylum have been linked to various diseases and conditions. These include:
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiome, involving a decrease in Bacteroidota has been associated with IBD, particularly Crohn‘s disease and ulcerative colitis.
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Colon Cancer: Studies have found an inverse relationship between Bacteroidota abundance and colon cancer risk. Higher levels of Bacteroidota have been associated with a reduced risk of developing this cancer.
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Metabolic Syndrome: Bacteroidota have been implicated in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Alterations in their composition have been linked to conditions such as insulin resistance and obesity.
Did you Know ?
Bacteroidota is the most abundant bacterial phylum in the human gut, accounting for up to 40% of the total bacterial population. This speaks to their pivotal role in maintaining gut homeostasis and overall health.
