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 linked to gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its abundance may indicate increased sulfur intake through diet or an imbalanced microbial community that promotes sulfur metabolism.
It is a type of sulfur-reducing bacterium found in the gut that converts sulfate into hydrogen sulfide.
To evaluate sulfur metabolism and possible microbial imbalances linked to gut inflammation or dysbiosis.
An overgrowth of sulfur-reducing bacteria, which can cause excessive hydrogen sulfide production and intestinal irritation.
Although it is a normal part of the gut flora, higher levels may lead to weakened gut barrier function and inflammation.