![]() It has been suggested that the process of sporulation emerged as a result of gains of two types of genes, the first at the base of the Firmicutes phylum, encoding significant and highly conserved proteins such as Spo0A and RNA polymerase sigma (Sig)-factors and the second at the base of B. The majority of studies on sporulation have focused on Bacillus subtilis, both for its competence and well-studied genome that has led to extensive genetic manipulation, or on Clostridioides difficile, because of this organism’s implication in disease and its unique genetic makeup, containing a wide variety of mobile elements, the latter differs from most nonpathogenic spore-formers. ![]() Sporulation is the process by which a vegetative cell undergoes a developmental change to form a metabolically inactive and highly resistant endospore. Therefore, in the last part of this review we will discuss the potential of spores as therapeutics in the form of probiotics, vaccine vehicles, and drug delivery systems. Some spore characteristics modulate or determine the interaction with the host and therefore show potential to be exploited for therapeutic use in various disorders. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms that dictate spore formation, survival, and germination within the gut environment. Due to improved isolation and identification procedures, spore-specific interactions can now be studied to better understand the differences between healthy gut microbiomes and gut dysbiosis. Differences and disruptions of the gut microbiome are implicated in multiple human disorders, but the contribution of spore-formers is relatively understudied. Gut microbes are known to interact closely with the epithelial immune system, priming the differentiation and development of intestinal immune cells while maintaining the important symbiotic relationship between host and microbe. Previously regarded as primarily soil-dwellers, it is now apparent that both aerobic and anaerobic spore-formers occupy a significant niche within the human gastro-intestinal tract. ![]() These recent improvements have vastly improved our knowledge of spore-formers and their environments. Results include successful culturing of previously “unculturable” species and allowed for identification in the new isolates of a series of genes linked to sporulation. These methods are followed by either culturing with added germinants, such as bile acids and amino acids, or DNA extraction and sequencing. ![]() Strategies to isolate and/or identify spore-formers from feces include utilization of various physical and chemical treatments to isolate resistant spores by killing vegetative cells while leaving spores intact. Thus, improved knowledge of the sporulation process, spore properties and germination, transmission dynamics, and consequences of gut colonization will all be important in providing a complete understanding of the gut microbiome and its overall function. The sporobiota, defined as the proportion of bacteria capable of endospore formation within the microbiome, may constitute up to 50% of bacteria within the human gut. Within this large assembly of gut bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, spore-forming bacteria have only recently been indicated as common, commensal occupants. For additional information visit Linking to and Using Content from MedlinePlus.Recent observations, combining observational and omics-based studies, have suggested that microbes inhabiting the human gut and the genes they carry, which make up the expansive and highly diverse human gut microbiome, can have a significant role in gut metabolism and health. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited without authorization. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy editorial process and privacy policy. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. is accredited by URAC, for Health Content Provider (URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M.
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