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Related Concept Videos

Functions of the Gut Microbiota01:18

Functions of the Gut Microbiota

The gut microbiota includes trillions of microorganisms that colonize the human gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. This complex ecosystem plays a critical role in maintaining intestinal and systemic health. Most of these microbes inhabit the large intestine, establishing a relatively stable and diverse community that contributes to gut homeostasis through various metabolic, immunological, and protective mechanisms.Dominant bacterial phyla, such as...
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The Oral Microbiota

The oral microbiome includes a complex ecosystem comprising over 700 microbial species, identified through genomic sequencing and culture-based analyses to date. This community includes a core microbiome, found universally among individuals, and a variable component influenced by environmental factors such as diet, lifestyle, and host genetics. Site-specific conditions, including oxygen gradients, pH levels, and nutrient availability, determine the spatial distribution of these microorganisms...
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The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...
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Introduction to the Human Microbiota

Microorganisms colonize various regions of the human body, including the mouth, nasal passages, throat, stomach, intestines, urogenital tract, and skin. The total number of microbial cells is estimated to range from 10¹³ to 10¹⁴—comparable to, or exceeding, the number of human somatic cells. This host–microbiome relationship has led to the conceptualization of humans as supraorganisms, wherein microbial communities perform vital roles in development, immunity, and disease...
Microbial Interactions: Parasitism01:22

Microbial Interactions: Parasitism

Parasitism is a form of microbial interaction in which parasitic microbes exploit a host organism for nutrients and shelter, often at the host's expense. Unlike mutualistic relationships, where both organisms benefit, parasitism benefits only the parasite and harms the host.Classification of ParasitesMicrobial parasites are broadly classified based on their location relative to the host.Ectoparasites remain on the host’s surface, such as the skin or outer tissues, drawing nutrients...
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The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...

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Gut matters: microbe-host interactions in allergic diseases.

Gabriele Hörmannsperger1, Thomas Clavel, Dirk Haller

  • 1Biofunctionality, ZIEL-Research Center for Nutrition and Food Science, CDD Center for Diet and Disease, Technische Universität München, Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
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PubMed
Summary

The human body is a metaorganism, with trillions of microbes influencing host immune functions. Disturbances in these microbe-host interactions, particularly the intestinal microbiota, are linked to immune-mediated disorders like allergies.

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Published on: June 30, 2021

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Human Physiology

Background:

  • The human body functions as a metaorganism, comprising host cells and a vast community of symbiotic microbes.
  • Coevolution has led to intricate molecular mechanisms governing host-microbe interactions, crucial for immune tolerance and pathogen defense.
  • Mammalian barrier and immune systems evolved under microbial pressure, necessitating complex interactions for homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the critical role of the intestinal microbiota in shaping host immune responses.
  • To emphasize the connection between the gut microbiota and the development of allergic diseases.
  • To explore potential intervention strategies targeting the microbiota for managing immune-mediated conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on the interplay between host immunity and the intestinal microbiota.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the impact of microbial dysbiosis on immune-mediated disorders.
  • Examination of research on therapeutic interventions modulating the gut microbiome.

Main Results:

  • The intestinal microbiota significantly influences the development and regulation of the host immune system.
  • Alterations in microbial composition are associated with increased susceptibility to allergic diseases.
  • Microbe-host interaction networks are vital for maintaining immune balance, and their disruption contributes to disease.

Conclusions:

  • The intestinal microbiota is a key determinant of immune system development and function.
  • Maintaining a balanced gut microbiota is essential for preventing immune-mediated disorders, particularly allergies.
  • Targeting the intestinal microbiota offers promising therapeutic avenues for allergic and other immune-related diseases.