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Microbiomes as sources of emergent host phenotypes
1Pacific Biosciences Research Center, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA. jblynch@g.ucla.edu.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|October 12, 2019
Summary
Animal microbiomes significantly impact host physiology and behavior. This review explores how host factors shape microbial communities and how these microbes influence host phenotypes, particularly neurobiology and behavior.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Animal Behavior
- Neurobiology
- Ecology
Background:
- Microbial communities profoundly influence host physiology, metabolism, immune function, and behavior.
- Host-microbiome interactions are crucial for maintaining homeostasis and health.
- The coevolution of animals and their microbiomes raises complex evolutionary questions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on host factors influencing microbial community structure.
- To examine the impact of microbiomes on emergent host phenotypes.
- To understand the microbiome's role in shaping host neurobiology and behavior.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications.
- Analysis of host factors affecting microbial communities.
- Examination of microbiome influences on host phenotypes, focusing on behavior.
Main Results:
- Host factors significantly contribute to the structure of animal-associated microbial communities.
- Microbiomes exert considerable influence on various host phenotypes, including complex behaviors.
- Evidence suggests a role for the microbiome in modulating host neurobiology.
Conclusions:
- Host-microbiome interactions are a critical area for understanding animal biology and evolution.
- Further research into the microbiome's influence on neurobiology and behavior is warranted.
- Understanding these relationships is key to comprehending host-environment interactions.
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