Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (B. theta): batterio alleato dell’intestino

• Who it is: Intestinal commensal bacterium, discovered in 1912 by Arcangelo Distaso, specialized in digesting complex carbohydrates such as starches and plant fibers.

• Main functions:

  • Digests fibers and starches thanks to specific enzymes (glycosidases) and the Sus system.

  • Produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFA: acetate, propionate, a bit of butyrate), which nourish intestinal cells and reduce inflammation.

  • Strengthens the intestinal barrier by stimulating mucin and modulating the immune system through capsular polysaccharides (PSA).

  • Fights pathogenic bacteria by competing for space and nutrients.

  • Indirectly influences the gut-brain axis by regulating inflammation and neuroactive metabolites.

  • Promotes the formation of biofilms with other beneficial bacteria, supporting microbial balance.

  • Enhances the effectiveness of certain anti-tumor immunotherapies.

• Importance: Maintains the balance of the microbiota, protects the intestine, reduces inflammation, and supports communication between the gut, immune system, and brain.

https://microbiota.news/bacteroides-thetaiotaomicron-il-batterio-che-digerisce-i-carboidrati-comples...