Desulfovibrio piger is a common sulfate-reducing bacterium (SRB) in the human gut microbiota. It reduces sulfate and other sulfur compounds into hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), a gas that in small amounts plays physiological roles but in excess can be toxic to intestinal cells. Elevated levels of D. piger have been associated with gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its abundance may reflect increased sulfur intake through diet or a disrupted microbial balance that favors sulfur metabolism.
It is a type of sulfur-reducing bacterium found in the gut that converts sulfate into hydrogen sulfide.
To assess sulfur metabolism and potential microbial imbalances associated with gut inflammation or dysbiosis.
An overgrowth of sulfur-reducing bacteria, which may lead to excessive hydrogen sulfide production and intestinal irritation.
While it is a normal gut resident, elevated levels may contribute to impaired gut barrier function and inflammation.