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Updated: Sep 29, 2025

Visualization of Germinosomes and the Inner Membrane in Bacillus subtilis Spores
Published on: April 15, 2019
Mechanisms and Applications of Bacterial Sporulation and Germination in the Intestine
Nienke Koopman1, Lauren Remijas1, Jurgen Seppen2
1Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS), University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Recent studies have suggested a major role for endospore forming bacteria within the gut microbiota, not only as pathogens but also as commensal and beneficial members contributing to gut homeostasis. In this review the sporulation processes, spore properties, and germination processes will be explained within the scope of the human gut. Within the gut, spore-forming bacteria are known to interact with the host's immune system, both in vegetative cell and spore form. Together with the resistant nature of the spore, these characteristics offer potential for spores' use as delivery vehicles for therapeutics. In the last part of the review, the therapeutic potential of spores as probiotics, vaccine vehicles, and drug delivery systems will be discussed.
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