Microbiome

Question 1

What is habitat in microbiome?

Answer 1

Specific site of organism growth

Question 2

What is the microbiome?

Answer 2

The microbiota and all of its associated genes

Question 3

What is the metagenome?

Answer 3

The total genomic DNA of all the organisms within a community

Question 4

What is the bacterial 16S rRNA gene?

Answer 4

• 1542 bp gene
• found in all bacteria and archaea
• encodes the small subunit of the ribosomal complex, necessary for protein synthesis

Question 5

What are the pros and cons of shotgun metagenomics?

Answer 5

Pros- sequences whole genes, covers all kingdoms, gives both functional and taxonomic info
cons- more technical and expensive

Question 6

What are the limitations of sequencing data?

Answer 6

• Can only identify sequences present in our databases
• need to perform whole genome sequencing of more organisms so this genetic info can be added
• need to annotate the sequences ie. what do the ATCG’s code for? what is their function?

Question 7

What are virulence genes?

Answer 7

Genes that contribute to the pathogenicity of the organism ie- endotoxin genes, fimbriae genes

Question 8

What are resistance genes?

Answer 8

Genes that induce antibiotic resistance (mecA gene)

Question 9

What are diagnostic marker genes?

Answer 9

Genes that aid in the rapid diagnosis of a disease ie hepatitis antibodies for HepC

Question 10

When does microbiome change most rapidly?

Answer 10

In the first 3 years of life

Question 11

Do identical twins have the same microbiome?

Answer 11

No

Question 12

What is the most common species in the stomach?

Answer 12

Helicobacter pylori

• associated with gastritis and ulcers and stomach cancer
• up to 40% colonised

Question 13

What species tend to be present in the small intestine?

Answer 13

• lower numbers of organisms
• those which have passed through stomach acid without being killed
• streptococcus and lactobacillus and yeasts. all are aciduric (acid tolerating)