Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (/bækˈtɪəroʊdiːz θiːtaɪoʊtaɪˈmɪkrɒn/) is a species of Gram-negative bacteria that is part of the normal microbiota of the human gut. It is a prominent member of the Bacteroidetes phylum, and plays a significant role in breaking down complex carbohydrates in the gut.
Etymology
The name Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron is derived from the Greek words theta, iota, and omicron, which are the names of the Greek letters θ, ι, and ο, respectively. This is a reference to the shape of the bacteria, which resembles these letters when viewed under a microscope.
Role in human health
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron plays a crucial role in maintaining human health by breaking down complex carbohydrates that the human body cannot digest on its own. It also helps to regulate the body's immune response to other, potentially harmful, bacteria.
Related terms
- Bacteroidetes: The phylum to which Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron belongs.
- Microbiota: The community of microorganisms that live in and on the human body.
- Gram-negative bacteria: A group of bacteria that do not retain the crystal violet stain used in the Gram stain method of bacterial classification.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
- Wikipedia's article - Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
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