The genus Lactobacillus is composed of Gram-positive, aerotolerant, non-spore-forming bacteria. In the year 2020, there will be over 260 species of Lactobacillus from 25 genera. There are a number of common names for each type. These common names are listed below. Learn the differences between each species, and read on to discover their different functions. Here’s a quick guide to Lactobacillus.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosis is an important strain of bacteria found in our guts. Researchers from Emory University have found that it has the ability to reduce cell death in both live animals and in vitro cultures. They have determined this by using DNA microarray analysis to see if Lactobacillus rhamnosus could protect cells from damage. These findings could be beneficial for a variety of reasons. In addition to supporting proper nutrient absorption, this bacteria is also known to support our bodies’ antioxidant capacity.
Researchers have also noted that L. rhamnosus has remarkable effects on inflammation and infection. It inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are triggered by pathogenic bacteria. It can also inhibit invasive capacity of bacteria. There are also some clinical benefits associated with Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These benefits should not be ignored. For example, the bacteria has been found to improve the immune system in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease.
The organism was first isolated from human intestinal tracts in 1983. It was then patented on 17 April 1985. Its name was changed to Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. The species is acid and bile stable, and produces lactic acid. It also ferments carbohydrates, such as arabinose and cellobiose. It is used to improve the health of individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, and it has several other uses.
Lactobacillus acidophilus
The widespread use of L. acidophilus in food and medicine has led to a limited amount of genetic diversity among strains of the bacterium. However, recent advances in high-throughput DNA sequencing have made it possible to acquire WGS data quickly and comprehensively. In this study, the genetic diversity of Lactobacillus acidophilus isolates was elucidated using reference-free de novo assembly and gene-by-gene analysis of the sequence data.
While lactobacillus acidophilus has been used for thousands of years to cure various medical conditions, few people know how to use it properly. However, it is safe to take L. acidophilus supplements on a daily basis. They are designed to provide a natural and healthy alternative to antibiotics. Although they are safe for most people, discontinuing use should be done only if you experience any side effects or symptoms that do not improve.
The study of the genetic diversity of the L. acidophilus group was carried out using ribosomal MLST. The rMLST phenotype contains 53 genes that encode ribosomal proteins. Using a Neighbour Net algorithm, the rMLST gene variation of the L. acidophilus group was compared to 108 reference genomes. The study showed that no two isolates of the same species shared the same allelic profile.
Lactobacillus bifermentans
Lactobacillus bifermentans is a bacterium that is found in soil and water. This bacterium first obtained recognition in 1902 and was formerly known as Bacillus bifermentans sporogenes. Bergey et al. renamed the species in 1923, following binominal nomenclature. This bacterium is usually found in soil, water, sewage, and animal feces.
A study of this bacterium revealed that it can ferment hexoses and pentoses, forming CO(2) as a result. It also produced lactic acid when given hemicellulosic hydrolyzate that contains xylose, glucose, and arabinose, but not xylose. The bacterium consumed the substrates at a rate of 3.2 gL-1 for glucose, 1.9 gL-1 for arabinose, and 1.6 gL-1 for xylose.
PCR was used to confirm presumptive species identifications. Some strains were misidentified as Leuconostoc, a facultatively heterofermentative species. However, Leuconostoc species made up 28% of the L. fermentum strains. The strains found in starters and milk were L. diolivorans, while L. parabuchneri and L. bifermentans were misidentified as one and the same.
Infections caused by lactobacillus may also occur in people with weakened immune systems. In this case, it’s best to consult with your health care provider before taking the bacterium. It has been known to cause blood infections in people with weakened immune systems, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer patients, or those on medications that prevent organ rejection. The benefits of this bacterium are numerous.