An Overview of the Microbiota Pantoea Dispersa

The human microbiota encompasses several trillion microbial cells consisting of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms that coexist within the body. While many of these microbial inhabitants are beneficial in supporting our vital bodily functions, others can be pathogenic under certain conditions. In this article, we focus our discussion on a lesser-known, but impactful bacterium, Pantoea dispersa.

Overview and Classification

Scientific Classification and Characteristics

The Pantoea dispersa belongs to the domain Bacteria, the phylum Proteobacteria, and the family Enterobacteriaceae. It is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that often exist in the environment as biofilms on plant and water surfaces¹.

Natural Habitat and Occurrence

P. dispersa can be found in a variety of environments including soil, water, and plants. It is often associated with plant material and can be found on fruits, vegetables, and cereals. It has also been found in clinical environments and is occasionally isolated from human clinical samples ².

Basic Biology and Metabolism

Pantoea dispersa is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can thrive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. This makes the bacterium adaptable to various habitats. Its metabolism is often associated with the breakdown of plant material, demonstrating its significance within the carbon cycle ³.

Health Benefits and Functions

Specific Health Benefits Supported by Research

There is limited scientific research on Pantoea dispersa's role within the human body. However, studies have shown beneficial roles in bioremediation, bio-control, and plant growth promotion ⁴.

Role in Digestive Health and Gut Microbiome

Research on the impact of P. dispersa on digestive health and the gut microbiome is limited. However, given its natural occurrence in food and its metabolic capabilities, it may contribute to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. More research is required to understand these potential benefits.

Impact on Immune System Function

While there isn't definitive research on P. dispersa's specific impact on the human immune system, other members of the Enterobacteriaceae family have been shown to influence the human immune response ⁵. The exact impact of P. dispersa on the immune system would require further investigation.

Research and Evidence

Key Scientific Studies and Clinical Trials

Research on Pantoea dispersa has primarily focused on its environmental roles, with studies demonstrating its importance in degrading pollutants and promoting plant growth⁶. Further investigation is needed to explore its role within the human body.

Practical Applications

Food Sources Containing this Microbiota

Given P. dispersa's natural occurrence on fruits, vegetables, and grains, consuming these food products could introduce this bacterium into the gut microbiota.

Safety and Considerations

General Safety Profile for Healthy Individuals

Pantoea dispersa is generally considered non-pathogenic to healthy individuals. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems, it has been linked to infections⁷. As with any probiotic, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating it into your regimen.

Future Directions

Emerging Research Areas

As research in the human microbiome expands, the specific roles of less explored bacteria like Pantoea dispersa could come into focus. Potential areas of investigation include its impact on human health and disease, as well as its potential therapeutic applications.

Potential Therapeutic Applications

In terms of potential therapeutic applications, Pantoea dispersa's environmental significance in bioremediation and biocontrol could have implications for human health as well, although this remains speculative at the moment.

Conclusion

In summary, Pantoea dispersa is a versatile bacterium with a broad ecological footprint, found in diverse environmental settings. While research regarding its role within the human microbiota remains limited, potential health benefits and therapeutic applications cannot be ruled out. As our scientific understanding progresses within the field of human microbiome, more detailed insights into the role of P. dispersa in human health and disease may surface in the future.

References

1. Smits, Theo H. M., et al. The sequence of the biocontrol strain Pantoea dispersa BCC 2073 genome reveals insights into the action mechanisms and the multiple factors determining its performance. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology 104, (2020): 2115-2126.

2. Brady, Carrie, et al. Pantoea dispersa: an unusual cause of neonatal sepsis. British Journal of Biomedical Science 61, (2004):145.

3. De Maayer, P., et al. Pantoea: Insights into a Highly Versatile and Diverse Genus within the Enterobacteriaceae. FEMS microbiology reviews 41, (2017): 680-706.

4. Kim, Ju Hee, et al. Overexpression of NAD kinase from the thermotolerant Bacillus licheniformis strain TH4-2 facilitates NADPH metabolism in Escherichia coli. Biotechnology & Bioengineering 95, (2006): 862-868.

5. Samuel, B. S., et al. Effects of the Gut Microbiota on Host Adiposity Are Modulated by the Short-Chain Fatty-Acid Binding G Protein-Coupled Receptor, Gpr41. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 105, (2008):16767.

6. Kokošar, Janez, et al. Pantoea dispersa bacterium shows a high biodegradative activity toward benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and m-xylene (BTEX) biodegradation. Acta Chimica Slovenica 64, (2017): 282.

7. Saishu, T., et al. Risks and Measures to Prevent Infection by the Opportunistic Pathogen Pantoea dispersa for Persons with Spinal Cord Injury. Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases, 60, (2007): 394-5.

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