Microbiome (TEST 3)

Question 1

Holobiont Theory

Answer 1

suggests that evolution acts not just on the host genome but on its associated microbes as well.

Question 2

Most diverse area of human in terms of microbiome?

Answer 2

GUT

Question 3

What are the limitations of 16s RNA sequencing? (5)

Answer 3

1) Primer bias – have to pick amongst the 9 variable regions
2) 16S database is incomplete
3) No viruses or eukaryotes
4) Sequence similarity cutoff is arbitrary
5) Doesn’t reveal anything specific about function – e.g. what the microbes are doing

Question 4

How do we explain the diversity of microbes among individuals in same tissue types?

Answer 4

The taxonomy is different but the function of the microbes is the same

Question 5

3 types of mouse used in mouse models?

Answer 5

1) Gnotobiotic = all microbes are excluded from environment
2) Conventionalized = germ free mice given their microbiota after birth (insures all mice have a similar microbiota)
3) Germ free = sterile mice

Question 6

Describe the twin study of malawians and the mice studies associated.

Answer 6

Refer to PPT

Question 7

Bacterial Vaginosis

Answer 7

is vaguely characterized as the disruption of the vaginal ecosystem