Human microbiome

Definition

The human microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their genetic material that live on and inside the human body. These microorganisms play crucial roles in maintaining health and influencing disease processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The human microbiome is most densely populated in the gut but also exists on the skin, mouth, and other mucosal surfaces.
2. The diversity of the microbiome is influenced by factors such as diet, environment, genetics, and antibiotic use.
3. Gut microbiota contribute to digestion, produce vitamins like B12 and K, and protect against pathogenic bacteria.
4. Microbiomes can influence mental health through the gut-brain axis by producing neurotransmitters like serotonin.
5. Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the microbial communities which can lead to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or obesity.

Review Questions

• What are some key functions of the gut microbiota?
• How can external factors such as diet or antibiotic use impact the human microbiome?
• What is dysbiosis and what are some associated health conditions?

Related terms

Prokaryote: A single-celled organism without a nucleus that includes bacteria and archaea.

Gut-Brain Axis: The bidirectional communication between the gut microbiota and the brain.

Symbiosis: A close biological interaction between two different biological organisms which can be mutualistic, commensalistic, or parasitic.