Coprococcus eutactus
Coprococcus eutactus: A Gut Microbe with Implications for Health and Disease
Introduction
Coprococcus eutactus is a Gram-positive, anaerobic bacterium commonly found in the human gut microbiome. It belongs to the Firmicutes phylum and is characterized by its ability to metabolize complex carbohydrates and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs play crucial roles in maintaining gut health and regulating immune function.
Description
Coprococcus eutactus is a non-spore-forming, rod-shaped bacterium with a size of approximately 0.5-1.0 μm in length and 0.3-0.6 μm in width. It is an obligate anaerobe, meaning it requires oxygen-free conditions to survive. Coprococcus eutactus is commonly found in the colon, where it accounts for up to 10% of the total bacterial population.
Associated Diseases
Research has linked an imbalance in Coprococcus eutactus levels to various diseases, including:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Coprococcus eutactus has been found to be decreased in individuals with IBD, such as Crohn‘s disease and ulcerative colitis. This suggests that a deficiency of Coprococcus eutactus may contribute to the development of IBD.
- Colorectal Cancer: Studies have observed a reduced abundance of Coprococcus eutactus in individuals with colorectal cancer. It is hypothesized that Coprococcus eutactus may play a protective role against colorectal cancer by producing SCFAs that inhibit tumor growth.
- Obesity: Coprococcus eutactus has been found to be decreased in obese individuals. This suggests that Coprococcus eutactus may be involved in regulating energy metabolism and weight management.
Did you Know ?
- Coprococcus eutactus is the most abundant bacterial species in the gut microbiome of breastfed infants. This highlights the importance of breastfeeding in establishing a healthy gut microbiome and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
