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Updated: Sep 16, 2025

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Introduction to microbiomes in health and diseases
Prachi Agrawal1, Prachi Mendhey1, Robins Kumar1
1Department of Biotechnology, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India.
Abstract:
The human microbiome is a complex ecological system of commensal, symbiotic, and pathogenic microorganisms that plays a crucial role in human health and disease. The microbiome includes both the living microorganisms also called microbiota and their synthesized metabolites and structural components. It is distributed to the gastrointestinal tract, skin, respiratory system, and oral cavity, each with a distinct microbial composition. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in the microbiome is linked to numerous diseases such as eczema, gastric ulcers, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The axes of microbial activity and their connections to disease, including the gut-skin, gut-lung, gut-brain, and gut-kidney play a crucial role in health and disease conditions. Also, the role of the microbiome in cancer development and response to therapy is examined. This book chapter underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome for overall health and the potential for microbiome-based interventions in disease prevention and treatment.
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