Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 12, 2026

An Intestinal Gut Organ Culture System for Analyzing Host-Microbiota Interactions
Published on: June 30, 2021
Role of the Intestinal Microbiota in Host Responses to Stressor Exposure
A R Mackos1, V A Varaljay1, R Maltz2
1Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States.
Abstract:
Humans have coevolved over time to not only tolerate but also rely on trillions of microbes that aid in the development of our immune system, provide nutrients, break down potentially noxious substances, and act as a barrier against potentially pathogenic organisms. These microbes, collectively known as the microbiota, live in relatively stable communities on mucosal surfaces such as the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Changes to the microbiota are often transient, due to changes in diet, antibiotic exposure, and psychological stressor exposure. This chapter will discuss how psychological stressors can shape the intestinal microbial community and how these perturbations can contribute to stressor-induced changes in immune function, neurodevelopment, and behavioral deficits.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction
IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
Altered...
Other Stress Responses in Bacteria
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
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...
Physiological Foundation of Stress
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...

