Species-Specific CRISPR-Cas Systems in Gut Bacteroides: Mechanisms of Phage Resistance and Implications for Microbial Community Stability

The gut microbiome, a critical determinant of human health, is a dynamic ecosystem under constant pressure from bacteriophages. Within this environment, Bacteroides species are dominant commensals whose resilience is partly attributed to diverse, species-specific CRISPR-Cas adaptive immune systems. This review synthesizes recent advances (۲۰۱۸-present) in our understanding of CRISPR-Cas systems in gut Bacteroides, focusing on their unique RNA-targeting Cas۱۳ variants. We detail the molecular mechanisms of phage defense, the role of these systems in modulating horizontal gene transfer, and their contribution to the stability and integrity of the microbial community. Furthermore, we explore the translational potential of harnessing these native systems for precise microbiome editing, the development of next-generation engineered probiotics, and novel antimicrobial strategies. Challenges and future directions for research and application are also discussed.

کلیدواژه ها:

CRISPR-Cas ، Bacteroides ، Gut Microbiome ، Phage Resistance ، Microbial Ecology ، Probiotic Engineering.