Non-oral Prevotella stepping into the spotlight

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Microbiome Research
• Bacterial Pathogenesis

Background:

• Prevotella species are common in the human oral cavity, found in both healthy individuals and those with periodontitis.
• Historically, most Prevotella were considered opportunistic pathogens due to isolation from abscesses, except for Prevotella intermedia.
• Rumen-dwelling Prevotella species are numerous and vital to the rumen ecosystem, suggesting broad habitat diversity within the genus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review research on Prevotella, tracing their evolution from obscure oral bacteria to significant mutualistic gut symbionts.
• To highlight the diverse habitats and lifestyles of Prevotella species.
• To underscore the growing importance of Prevotella in mammalian gut ecosystems and the need for further research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on Prevotella.
• Analysis of Prevotella isolation data from various body sites and environments.
• Synthesis of research themes concerning Prevotella's ecological roles.

Main Results:

• Prevotella exhibit a wide range of lifestyles, from oral cavity inhabitants to rumen ecosystem members.
• The genus harbors bacteria with diverse habitats, including opportunistic pathogens and mutualistic symbionts.
• Prevotella are increasingly recognized for their importance in the gut microbiota of various mammals.

Conclusions:

• Prevotella have transitioned from being considered minor oral bacteria and difficult-to-cultivate rumen organisms to recognized mutualistic gut bacteria.
• The genus Prevotella demonstrates significant bacterial diversity in habitats and functions.
• Further research into Prevotella is warranted due to their critical roles in mammalian gut ecosystems.