Microbial volume and diversity is essential.
The gut microbiome—the microbial community in the intestinal tract—is an influencer of metabolism and immunity and a mediator of resistance to some pathogenic infections.1
A distinct and essential organ within the human body, the gut microbiome contains an estimated 500-1000 species and 100 trillion organisms, encoding 100-fold more unique genes than our own genome.1-4
In its balanced state, there is a symbiotic relationship between luminal bacteria and our human cells.5
These cells communicate and form long-lasting, interactive associations that play a vital role in conservation of mucosal immune function, epithelial barrier integrity, motility, and nutrient absorption.5-7
Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes are most prevalent in the gut microbime and work symbiotically8-10
Gram-negative Bacteroidetes
Their ability to adapt and persist in changing gut environments allows abundance and stability,8,11-13 providing long-term associations with human hosts and enabling functions that include8..
- Immunomodulatory effects8,a
- Inhibitory activities against C. diff and reduction of colonization14,a,b
Gram-positive Firmicutes
Composed of helpful and harmful bacteria,2,15 Firmicutes are the most abundant and diverse bacterial gut species,2 with functions that include:
- Anti-inflammatory effects16-18,c
- Fortification of gut barrier (along with other bacteria)19-21,b
Deficiencies in Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes are particularly associated with C. diff infection.2,9,22
