Xyloglucan has a backbone of β1→4-linked glucose residues, most of which are substituted with 1-6 linked xylose sidechains.
Recent studies have shown that a discrete genetic locus confers xyloglucan metabolism in selected human gut Bacteroidota.
This findings reveals that the metabolism of even highly abundant components of dietary fiber maybe mediated by niche species.
The metabolism of xyloglucans is the result of the concerted action of several enzymes and membrane transporters.
Moreover, the rarity of XyG metabolism highlights the significance of Bacteroides ovatus and other proficient XyG-degrading Bacteroidota as key members of the human gut microbial consortium.