The appendix may serve as a reservoir of beneficial gut bacteria. In the event of gut microbial dysbiosis, due to intestinal infection or antibiotic treatment, it may restore the gut microbial balance ...

The appendix's function isn't fully known, but some theories state it helps with recovery from infections, inflammation, and diarrhea. Though these functions sound important, the body can still ...

Recent studies reveal that the human appendix plays roles in gut microbiota restoration and immunity, contrary to its previous classification as vestigial. The appendix harbors beneficial bacteria ...

Some of these features have been co-opted or repurposed for a different function due to evolutionary changes in environment, behavior, or selective pressures. “The appendix is a good example of ...