Human Microbiome Flashcards
Define “microbiome”
community of microorganisms (pathogenic, commensal, and symbiotic) that share the body space of higher organisms
True/false: there are more microbial cells living in/on a human body than there are human cells
True (ratio is 10:1)
True/False: the human microbiome is comprised solely of bacteria
false; bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes, and viruses
The _______ was launched in 2006 as an extension of the Human Genome project. What is its purpose?
Human Microbiome project
improve understanding of microbiota involved in human health and disease
The 2 phases of the human microbiome project:
phase 1 (2007): identify normal flora found in different parts of the body
phase 2 (2014): integrative human microbiome project (iHMP): Characterize and elucidate the roles of these microbes in health and disease
Examples of where microbes are commonly found in high concentrations in the body:
GI tract, oral cavity, nasal passages. skin, urogenital tract
About ____ species colonize the human microbiome, and ___% have been characterized
10,000
81-99%
What are we currently lacking knowledge in, concerning the human microbiome?
how species interact with each other
most have been characterized, but don’t understand how they work together
Applications of studying microbiomes:
agriculture, health & disease, climate science & carbon cycling, sustainable energy/biofuels
Who is the “microbiome dude?” What is he known for?
Rob Knight
major contributor in HMP
co-founder of American Gut Project
_____ differs among healthy people and depending on ___ ___, though ______ remain similar.
microbiome
body site
metabolic pathways
How do C-section babies differ from vaginal birth babies?
Not exposed to mother’s vaginal flora
differences in microbiome community
slightly higher risk of obesity, asthma, allergies, etc.
Can lifestyle factors affect the microbiome?
Yes: people, diets, environment, pets
True/False: it has been shown that dogs will decrease allergy and asthma risk in children
False; no definitive studies
but some correlation showing that dogs may lower risk (due to acting as microbial transfer agent)
How can microbiomes be useful in forensics?
Each person has a unique microbiome - similar to fingerprint
Can leave traces behind from skin; useful when fingerprint is not clear
