Question

What are common members of GI tract microbiota, and how are they beneficial?

Answer 1

The GI tract microbiota contains microorganisms belonging to the phylum Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. The GI tract microbiota consists of the following genera: Bacteriodes, Clostridium, Ruminococcus, Peptococcus, Peptosteptococcus and Bifidobacterium. Lactobacillus and Escherichia are present in lesser concentrations.

Fungal genera also present in the gut include: Candidda, Saccharomyces, Aspergilus, Penicillium, Rdodotorula.

The relationship between the gut microflora and humans is mutualistic symbiotic. The microflora helps to ferment unused energy substrates, prevents the growth of harmful species, produces vitamins for the host such as Biotin and vitamin K. The gut microflora is also involved in immune function by regulating the production of antibodies.