Lecture 15 - Human microbiome

Question 1

Describe the importance of microbes on the human. Give examples of the types of microbes in specific areas of the human body and their role.

Answer 1

The human microbiome plays a major role in sustaining an equilibrium balance of microflora enabling to benefit the body. A healthy lung has a variety of microbiota including bacteriodetes and Firmicutes at a greater level than other bacteria. The imbalance of microbiome can lead to problems i.e. Asthma is due to an increase in Staphylococci and Firmicutes.

Question 2

Discuss the possible factors that may lead to a change in individual microbiome

Answer 2

There are several possible factors that may lead to change in individual microbiome. A dyposis is possible due to a change in diet of unhealthy foods. The use of antibiotics can damage flora which lead to microbial imbalance causing thrush.

Question 3

What are the detrimental effects that can occur due to an imbalance of microbiome

Answer 3

A dysbiosis in the skin can lead exposing the body opportunistic infections. Eg Staphylococcus Aureus is present on the skin however an imbalance of other bacteria can lead to S.aureus dominating and causing skin infection. Furthermore, an imbalance of microbiome in the GI tract can lead to obesity as the beneficial bacteria play a role in metabolising food.