The Gastrointestinal Microbiome: A Review

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Microbiology
• Genomics

Background:

• The gastrointestinal microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in mammalian physiology.
• It impacts energy homeostasis, metabolism, immunity, and neurobehavioral development.
• The microbiome's metabolic functions extend beyond the host's capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in microbiomics.
• To highlight the role of the gastrointestinal microbiome in small animal health and disease.
• To prepare small animal veterinarians for future clinical applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature on microbiomics.
• Analysis of studies on the gastrointestinal microbiome in mammals, with a focus on small animals.
• Synthesis of information on the impact of microbiome alterations on health and disease.

Main Results:

• The gut microbiome is integral to host health, influencing numerous physiological processes.
• Alterations in the microbiome are linked to various diseases in humans and animals.
• Emerging research is characterizing the small animal microbiome's role in health and disease.

Conclusions:

• The field of microbiomics has been transformed by technological advancements.
• Understanding the small animal microbiome is critical for veterinary medicine.
• Future veterinary practice will likely integrate microbiome-based diagnostics and therapies.