beyond muciniphila - emergence of new species sp. nov.

The human gut commensal is the most studied bacterial species within the Verrucomicrobiota phylum. It has been proposed as a beneficial next-generation probiotic for cardiometabolic and immune health. Efforts from various research groups have resulted in the recent discovery of new species and/or phylotypes of the genus . This highlighted the genetic and phenotypic diversity among the isolates, providing an opportunity to identify novel mechanisms pertaining to health benefits. Genetic diversity between strains warrants detailed investigation to determine beneficial strains. sp. nov. has emerged as the second most prevalent species in the human gut, with unique properties and potential relevance for human health. In addition, indications of the co-existence of more than one phylotype or species in a subject are intriguing. These new discoveries pave the way for additional developments of effective and targeted species-based interventions to provide health benefits.