Special Issue "Enterococci for Probiotic Use: Safety and Risk": Editorial

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Human Physiology
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• The human body is increasingly recognized as a complex ecosystem.
• Microorganisms, their functions, and metabolic byproducts are integral components of human health.
• This understanding underpins the emerging concept of the holobiont.

Discussion:

• The holobiont framework integrates the host and its associated microbial communities.
• It emphasizes the co-evolutionary and functional interdependence between host and microbes.
• This perspective shifts focus from individual microbes to the collective microbial ecosystem.

Key Insights:

• Microbial metabolites play a direct role in host physiological processes.
• The activity of microorganisms is as important as their presence.
• Understanding the holobiont is key to comprehending host-microbe interactions.

Outlook:

• Future research will explore therapeutic strategies targeting the holobiont.
• This concept has implications for understanding diseases and developing novel treatments.
• Further investigation into microbial metabolites will reveal new insights into human health.