Isolation and Characterization of Commensal Bacteria in Murine Intestinal Samples

Recent studies have shown the existence of a commensal flora of great diversity residing within the gut.  These microbes are currently being investigated and shown to be implemented in an array of bodily functions and development.  However, the species within this microbiota have yet to be studied.  The purpose of this study was to identify and isolating anaerobic bacteria from the intestines of mice.  The samples collected from the mice were cultured in anaerobic conditions by using bacteriological media.  PCR of the 16s rRNA gene, present in all bacteria, was used to further analyze the presence of anaerobic bacteria and the obtained amplified pro,duct was purified to undergo Sanger sequencing.  A large percetnage of Bacteroides acidifaciens and Parasutterella  excrementihominis have been identified within the murine intestinal samples.  The identification of these species, as well as others, will be subjected to further experimentation which will conclude its function and role within the microbiome.