We investigated the local variability of bacterial species within the lumen of the cecum and proximal colon of guinea pigs by using PCR–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The DGGE banding profiles revealed radial and axial variation of the bacteria. This variation of bacteria within the large intestinal lumen might be of physiological importance for the degradation of dietary fiber and interaction between bacteria and the mucosal immune system.

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