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 kind of sulfur-reducing bacterium located in the gut that transforms sulfate into hydrogen sulfide.
To evaluate sulfur metabolism and possible microbial imbalances linked to gut inflammation or dysbiosis.
An overgrowth of sulfur-reducing bacteria that can result in excessive hydrogen sulfide production and irritation of the intestines.
Although it is a normal resident of the gut, higher levels may contribute to reduced gut barrier function and inflammation.