Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 24, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Diet, gut microbes, and genetics in immune function: can we leverage our current knowledge to achieve better outcomes
Vanessa A Leone1, Candace M Cham1, Eugene B Chang1
1University of Chicago, Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, United States.
Abstract:
Autoimmune disorders, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), are increasing at an alarming frequency. While the exact cause remains elusive, studies have examined how the immune system is shaped in the context of genetic susceptibility, gut microbes, and environmental pressures, including dietary intake. Shifts towards a Westernized high fat, high carbohydrate diet result in changes to gut microbiota structure and function that may aid in triggering and perpetuating autoimmunity by promoting the emergence of pathobionts leading to altered immune activation. This review summarizes our current understanding of dietary-induced changes in gut microbiota on autoimmunity in the context of IBD. We provide a framework for leveraging this knowledge to develop new dietary, microbial and immune-based modulation strategies for individualized risk assessment and improving clinical outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
Functions of the Gut Microbiota
Gut-Brain Axis
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis
Anatomy of the Intestines
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...

