Bacteroides dorei

Bacteroides dorei is a species of bacteria that belongs to the genus Bacteroides. It is a gram-negative, obligate anaerobic bacterium that is commonly found in the human gut microbiota. Bacteroides dorei plays a significant role in the digestion of complex carbohydrates and the production of short-chain fatty acids.

Taxonomy

Bacteroides dorei is a member of the Bacteroides genus, which is part of the Bacteroidaceae family. The Bacteroides genus is characterized by its gram-negative, obligate anaerobic nature. The species name dorei was given in honor of Joël Doré, a French microbiologist who made significant contributions to the study of gut microbiota.

Physiology

Bacteroides dorei is a gram-negative bacterium, meaning it does not retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram stain procedure. It is an obligate anaerobe, which means it can only grow in the absence of oxygen. The bacterium is rod-shaped and non-motile.

Role in Human Health

Bacteroides dorei is a common component of the human gut microbiota. It plays a crucial role in the digestion of complex carbohydrates, breaking them down into simpler sugars that can be absorbed by the host. The bacterium also produces short-chain fatty acids, which serve as an energy source for the cells lining the colon.

In addition to its beneficial roles, Bacteroides dorei has been associated with certain health conditions. Some studies have suggested a link between the bacterium and the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, more research is needed to fully understand these associations.

See Also

• Bacteroides
• Gut microbiota
• Gram-negative bacteria
• Obligate anaerobes