| Description | Bifidobacterium thermophilum is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a thermophilic heterotroph and an obligate anaerobe, primarily thriving in warm environments such as the intestines of humans and other mammals, as well as in dairy products. This species is part of the Bifidobacterium genus, known for its beneficial probiotic properties.As a gram-positive organism, Bifidobacterium thermophilum has a thick peptidoglycan layer in its cell wall, which plays a crucial role in its structural integrity and resistance to environmental stresses. Its rod shape facilitates colonization and interaction with the gut microbiota, allowing for efficient nutrient absorption and metabolic processes. Being thermophilic, it is well adapted to elevated temperatures, typically thriving around 37-45°C, which corresponds to the body temperature of many mammals, promoting its growth and metabolic activities in warm niches. As a heterotroph, Bifidobacterium thermophilum relies on organic compounds for energy, utilizing carbohydrates found in dietary fibers and human milk oligosaccharides. This capability is vital for its survival in the gut, where it ferments these substrates and produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as acetate and lactate, contributing to gut health and homeostasis. As an obligate anaerobe, it thrives in environments devoid of oxygen, relying on fermentation pathways to metabolize substrates, which is common in the anaerobic conditions of the human intestines. Bifidobacterium thermophilum has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, including modulation of the gut microbiome, enhancement of immune function, and prevention of gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and constipation. Additionally, its use in functional foods, such as yogurt, highlights its significance in promoting digestive health and overall well-being. |
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