| Description | Parabacteroides gordonii is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that thrives in anaerobic conditions, specifically classified as an obligate anaerobe. This microbe is predominantly found in the human gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the colon, but it can also be isolated from other body sites such as the oral cavity and the female urogenital tract, showcasing its versatility in colonization and survival. As a heterotroph, P. gordonii relies on organic compounds for its energy and carbon sources, indicating its dependence on the metabolic processes of the host or surrounding microbial community. The organism's Gram-negative cell wall structure, characterized by a thin peptidoglycan layer surrounded by an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides, contributes to its resilience and adaptability in diverse environments. The rod shape of P. gordonii enhances its motility, allowing it to navigate through the dense microbial ecosystems in the gut, facilitating interactions with other microorganisms and contributing to the overall gut microbiome stability. P. gordonii is of particular interest in microbiome studies due to its potential role in maintaining gut health and its implications in oral health. Research has shown that certain species in the Parabacteroides genus may inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, thereby playing a protective role in infections. Additionally, its presence in the oral cavity connects it to various oral health issues, including periodontal diseases, emphasizing the need for further research into its dual roles as both a commensal and a potential opportunistic pathogen in different anatomical niches. |
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