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Related Concept Videos

Functions of the Gut Microbiota01:18

Functions of the Gut Microbiota

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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 human microbiota begins developing at birth and undergoes continual change as we age. Infancy marks a critical period of microbial sensitivity, offering a “window of opportunity” during which beneficial microbes help mature the immune system. By age three, children typically develop a more stable and diverse microbial community. Newborns acquire microbes from their immediate environment; vaginal delivery favors maternal vaginal microbes, while cesarean births favor microbes from...
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Although digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids may begin in the stomach, it is completed in the intestine. The absorption of nutrients, water, and electrolytes from food and drink also occurs in the intestine. The intestines can be divided into two structurally distinct organs—the small and large intestines.
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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...
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Crohn’s disease is a chronic, relapsing form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by segmental, transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Its pathogenesis arises from a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, epithelial barrier dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. Together, these factors lead to an exaggerated immune response against components of the gut microbiome.Genetic and Environmental InfluencesMultiple genetic...
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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,...
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Updated: Apr 25, 2026

An Intestinal Gut Organ Culture System for Analyzing Host-Microbiota Interactions
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Modulation of immune development and function by intestinal microbiota.

Agnieszka M Kabat1, Naren Srinivasan2, Kevin J Maloy1

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The gut microbiota influences the immune system to maintain balance, but the exact mechanisms are still being uncovered. Understanding these interactions could lead to new treatments for immune disorders.

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Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • The gastrointestinal tract harbors trillions of microbes crucial for host health.
  • Immune homeostasis requires distinguishing between pathogens and beneficial commensal microbiota.
  • Mechanisms by which gut microbiota shapes the immune system are not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in understanding host-microbiota interactions.
  • To highlight cellular and molecular factors involved in immune modulation by microbiota.
  • To identify challenges in translating this knowledge into therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent scientific findings.
  • Analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on microbiota-immune system interplay.

Main Results:

  • Microbiota derivatives influence various immune cell types, including epithelial cells, phagocytes, innate lymphoid cells, and lymphocytes.
  • Specific cellular and molecular pathways mediating these interactions are being identified.
  • Significant progress has been made in understanding microbiota's role in immune regulation.

Conclusions:

  • Intestinal microbiota actively shapes host immunity through diverse mechanisms.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand these complex interactions.
  • Translating this knowledge holds promise for novel therapeutic strategies for immune-related diseases.