Health Effects and Therapeutic Potential of the Gut Microbe .

is a bacterium commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract that has received considerable interest as a potential probiotic for the improvement of gut health and overall metabolic function. is enriched in the mucus layer of the intestinal lining, where it degrades mucin and plays a significant role in gut barrier maintenance and immune regulation. A higher abundance of has been observed in the gut of healthy individuals relative to those with metabolic disorders, and multiple metabolic benefits, including improved glucose management, reduced body fat, and reduced inflammation have been linked to . Current research on primarily relies on mouse models, with limited human interventional studies available. While these animal studies offer valuable insights into the potential roles of in health and disease, further clinical investigations in humans are needed to fully understand its impact. Here, we explore the current scope of research and its potential as a therapeutic agent to improve gut and metabolic health while also emphasizing the need to optimize techniques to further improve studies of this organism.