Description | Collinsella is a gram-positive, rod-shaped microbe that thrives in mesophilic temperatures, categorized as a chemoheterotroph, and can be found in various body sites, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and skin, across all possible species. As an obligate anaerobe, Collinsella requires the absence of oxygen to grow and survive, which is reflected in its ability to ferment carbohydrates and produce short-chain fatty acids. The gram-positive cell wall of Collinsella provides it with a unique structure, allowing it to maintain its shape and withstand environmental stresses. Its rod-shaped morphology enables it to move and colonize new areas, contributing to its ability to inhabit diverse body sites. As a mesophilic microbe, Collinsella grows best in temperatures between 20-45°C, which is typical of the human body's temperature range. As a chemoheterotroph, Collinsella relies on organic compounds for energy and carbon, which it obtains by fermenting carbohydrates and other nutrients. This metabolic process allows it to produce various metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, which can influence the host's gut microbiome and overall health. The absence of oxygen is crucial for Collinsella's growth, as it is an obligate anaerobe, and its metabolism is adapted to function optimally in low-oxygen environments. Collinsella has been implicated in various health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and metabolic disorders, highlighting the importance of understanding its role in the human microbiome. The unique metabolic capabilities of Collinsella allow it to interact with the host's immune system and influence the balance of the gut microbiome, making it a significant area of research in the field of microbiology. |
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