The Biology of Akkermansia

Abstract

Members of the genus Akkermansia are the only known representatives of Verrucomicrobiota within the gastrointestinal tract. Akkermansia muciniphila, the best-characterized representative of the genus, is a mucin-degrading specialist that has emerged as a microbe of significant interest due to its influence on the health of its hosts. We describe emerging themes in the biology of Akkermansia species, including their diversity; cellular structures; physiology; interactions with other intestinal microbes; responses to diet; and effects on mammalian hosts, particularly their role in modulating immune responses. We also describe some of the tools available to explore the molecular biology of Akkermansia and discuss its increasingly complex interactions with other members of the microbiota and their implications for gastrointestinal health.