Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus (pronunciation: /ˌlæktoʊbəˈsɪləs/) is a genus of Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic or microaerophilic, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacteria. They are a major part of the lactic acid bacteria group, named as such because most of its members convert lactose and other sugars to lactic acid.
Etymology
The name Lactobacillus is derived from the Latin words lactis meaning 'milk' and bacillus meaning 'small rod', referring to the fact that many species of this genus were first discovered in milk fermentations and have a rod-like shape.
Related Terms
- Probiotics: Live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. Lactobacilli are commonly used as probiotics.
- Fermentation: The metabolic process that consumes sugar in the absence of oxygen. The products are organic acids, gases, or alcohol. Lactobacillus plays a key role in the fermentation of food and beverages.
- Lactic Acid: An organic compound with the formula CH3CH(OH)COOH. It is produced by several species of lactobacilli.
- Microbiota: The microbe population living in our body. Lactobacillus is a significant part of the human microbiota, particularly in the gut.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lactobacillus
- Wikipedia's article - Lactobacillus
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