| Description | Bacteroides vulgatus is a mesophilic, chemoheterotrophic, Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium predominantly found in the human gut, classified as an obligate anaerobe. This microbe thrives optimally at moderate temperatures, typically between 30-37°C, making it well-suited to the warm environment of the human body. As a chemoheterotroph, Bacteroides vulgatus derives its energy from organic compounds, utilizing carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids as its primary energy sources. Its Gram-negative cell wall structure is characterized by a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane, which provides it with unique resistance to certain antibiotics and environmental stresses. Bacteroides vulgatus is a significant member of the gut microbiota, contributing to various body sites, particularly the large intestine, where it plays a pivotal role in digestion and metabolism. This bacterium aids in the breakdown of complex polysaccharides into short-chain fatty acids, which serve as an energy source for colon cells and contribute to overall gut health. Additionally, it competes with pathogenic microbes, thus maintaining a balanced microbiome and preventing dysbiosis. Bacteroides vulgatus is also known for its ability to produce various enzymes, such as glycoside hydrolases and proteases, facilitating the degradation of dietary fibers and proteins. Its presence is crucial in the fermentation process, which leads to the production of beneficial metabolites. Furthermore, emerging research suggests that alterations in the abundance of Bacteroides vulgatus may be associated with various health conditions, including obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and metabolic syndrome, highlighting its potential role in human health and disease. |
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