Exploration of the Muribaculaceae Family in the Gut Microbiota: Diversity, Metabolism, and Function

The gut microbiota are mainly composed of <i>Bacteroidetes</i> and <i>Firmicutes</i> and are crucial for metabolism and immunity. <i>Muribaculaceae</i> are a family of bacteria within the order <i>Bacteroidetes</i>. <i>Muribaculaceae</i> produce short-chain fatty acids via endogenous (mucin glycans) and exogenous polysaccharides (dietary fibres). The family exhibits a cross-feeding relationship with probiotics, such as <i>Bifidobacterium</i> and <i>Lactobacillus</i>. The alleviating effects of a plant-based diet on inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes are associated with an increased abundance of <i>Muribaculaceae</i>, a potential probiotic bacterial family. This study reviews the current findings related to <i>Muribaculaceae</i> and systematically introduces their diversity, metabolism, and function. Additionally, the mechanisms of <i>Muribaculaceae</i> in the alleviation of chronic diseases and the limitations in this field of research are introduced.