Oscillospira : a Central, Enigmatic Component of the Human Gut Microbiota

Oscillospira is an enigmatic bacterial genus that has never been cultured, but is constantly detected by 16S rRNA gene surveys of the human microbiome. Here we summarize recent evidence that Oscillospira is positively associated with leanness and health, speculate about its physiology, and argue its potential importance for human health. Oscillospira is an enigmatic bacterial genus that has never been cultured, but is constantly detected by 16S rRNA gene surveys of the human microbiome. Here we summarize recent evidence that Oscillospira is positively associated with leanness and health, speculate about its physiology, and argue its potential importance for human health.