Human biology has long been interested primarily in the human genome. Nevertheless, it has been found that the human microbiome, trillions of microorganisms that inhabit and cover our body, is equally important in health and disease. These microbes, in particular, gut microorganisms, constitute a very dynamic ecosystem that practically acts as an extra organ.
The intestinal microbiome harbors millions of microbial genes, which is much more than the number of human genes. These genes facilitate the breaking down of complex nutrients, the production of vitamin requirements like vitamin K and B-complex vitamins, and metabolic control. Without having a healthy microbiome, most physiological mechanisms become ineffective or dysfunctional.
The regulation of the immune system is one of the most significant functions of the microbiome. Exposure to a variety of microbes at an early age conditions the immune system to differentiate between the dangerous pathogens and the non-hazardous antigens. In case of such an imbalance, e.g., by taking antibiotics too often, an unhealthy diet, or environmental stress, an immune imbalance may arise, which may predispose a person to allergies, autoimmune diseases, and persistent inflammation. The gut-brain axis also allows the microbiome to interact with the brain and affects mood, cognition, and behaviour. Changes in the microbial composition of the gut are associated with anxiety, depression, or neurodegenerative diseases, hence a growing topic in neuroscience and translational medicine. The microbiome is also creating new therapeutic opportunities in the biotechnology field, such as precision probiotics, microbiome-based diagnostics, and individualized treatment plans.
MBH/PS