Agathobacter

Agathobacter is a butyrate-producer in the Lachnospiraceae family of microorganisms that live in the human gastrointestinal tract, contributing to overall gut health. Agathobacter is quite closely related to the Roseburia genus.

Roles of Agathobacter species in human health

Digestive support: Agathobacter species excel at breaking down complex carbohydrates, particularly plant-based fibres.¹² This aids in better nutrient absorption and overall digestive health.
Immune system modulation: Agathobacter converts acetate produced by Ruminococcus and Bifidobacterium into butyrate³ by means of cross-feeding. Butyrate nourishes and protects cells in the gut lining, triggering and regulating immune responses.⁴⁵⁶⁷⁸ This provides an extra layer of defence against harmful pathogens and contributes to overall gut health.
Protection from dysbiosis: Agathobacter abundance is consistently higher in study participants whose gut microbial ecosystem is balanced compared to that of participants who are affected by dysbiosis. This relationship is observed across age groups, from children to elderly people, both male and female, and in both healthy participants and those living with a diagnosed condition.⁹¹⁰¹¹¹²

What are the best sources of Agathobacter?

Agathobacter species are naturally present in the human gut and can be supported by consuming a fibre-rich diet. There are no food sources of Agathobacter or specialised Agathobacter probiotic supplements at present.

**What foods can Agathobacter feed on**?

Agathobacter seems to thrive on complex carbohydrates, particularly those present in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Foods rich in resistant starch, such as cooked and cooled potatoes, and various fibres like cellulose and hemicellulose are good sources of nourishment for these bacteria.¹³

**Where to find Agathobacter in the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test**

You will find your Agathobacter score in the “Butyrate” section of the “Postbiotics” report in your Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test results.

Synonyms: Eubacterium rectale, Eubacterium ruminis.

Important disclaimer

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Handbook is an educational resource built to translate complex science into plain English. The information provided on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Always check with your GP for interactions with medications/health conditions before changing your diet or starting to take food supplements.

References

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2
Kulecka M, Fraczek B, Mikula M, Zeber-Lubecka N, Karczmarski J, Paziewska A, Ambrozkiewicz F, Jagusztyn-Krynicka K, Cieszczyk P, Ostrowski J. The composition and richness of the gut microbiota differentiate the top Polish endurance athletes from sedentary controls. Gut Microbes. 2020 Sep 2;11(5):1374-1384. doi: 10.1080/19490976.2020.1758009.
3
Rosero JA, Killer J, Sechovcová H, Mrázek J, Benada O, Fliegerová K, Havlík J, Kopečný J. Reclassification of Eubacterium rectale (Hauduroy et al. 1937) Prévot 1938 in a new genus Agathobacter gen. nov. as Agathobacter rectalis comb. nov., and description of Agathobacter ruminis sp. nov., isolated from the rumen contents of sheep and cows. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol. 2016 Feb;66(2):768-773. doi: 10.1099/ijsem.0.000788.
4
Siddiqui MT, Cresci GAM. The Immunomodulatory Functions of Butyrate. J Inflamm Res. 2021 Nov 18;14:6025-6041. doi: 10.2147/JIR.S300989.
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8
Kayama, H., Okumura, R., & Takeda, K. (2020). Interaction Between the Microbiota, Epithelia, and Immune Cells in the Intestine. doi: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-070119-115104.
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Hua X, Zhu J, Yang T, Guo M, Li Q, Chen J, Li T. The Gut Microbiota and Associated Metabolites Are Altered in Sleep Disorder of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Psychiatry. 2020 Sep 2;11:855. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00855.
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