Bacteroides fragilis strain DCMOUH0067B

Bacteroides fragilis strain DCMOUH0067B is a Gram-negative, anaerobic rod-shaped bacterium characterized by its chemoorganotrophic metabolism, utilizing organic compounds for energy. This strain is free-living and typically inhabits host-associated environments, with a notable presence in various hosts including Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, Metazoa, Equidae, and Serpentes. Under optimal conditions, specifically at 37°C, B. fragilis DCMOUH0067B exhibits a mesophilic growth range. It is non-motile and possesses flagella, indicating some structural adaptations for its ecological niche. The bacterium has a single replicon and a double-membrane structure, typical of Gram-negative bacteria. Bacteroides fragilis has been associated with numerous health complications in humans, including bacteremia, abscesses, and various gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and colitis. It has also been linked to more severe conditions, including colorectal cancer and septicemia, highlighting its potential pathogenicity. The strain's involvement in anaerobic bacteremia and intraabdominal abscesses suggests a significant role in local tissue infections. Ecologically, B. fragilis contributes to the complex microbiota of the gut, where it plays a dual role—beneficial under normal conditions but potentially pathogenic when the microbiome is disrupted. This duality underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced microbial ecosystem to prevent opportunistic infections and associated health issues. The strain's ability to thrive in a variety of hosts further emphasizes its ecological versatility and adaptability within different biological systems.