The Human Microbe L4 Flashcards
What is the human microbe?
ALL the microbes inhabiting the human body
Where do bacteria live?
EVERYWHERE?
What is a commensal relationship?
Benefits the host without causing harm
What is a symbiotic relationship?
Where both the host and microorganism benefit
What is a pathogenic relationship?
Causes disease
What is a parasitic relationship?
The bacteria benefits from the hose w/o reciprocity and may diminish fitness of host
Where are the places in our body that are completely stable?
Uterus
Bladder
CNS/Spinal Fluid
Blood
What are the functions provided by healthy intestinal microbiomes? (5)
- Produces products that we need (vit. K)
- Obtain max. value of digestion
- Induces development of the immune system
- Maintains barrier integrity of the gut lumenal epithelium
- Protects us from pathogens
What are the metabolic functions of the commensal gut?
- Synthesis of vitamins (ex. K)
- Harvest maximal energy via digestion
- Control of gut epithelial cell differentiation and proliferation
What are the immune and structural functions of the commensal gut?
- Immune System development
- Enhancement of intestinal barrier integrity (TJ)
- Prevention of intestinal barrier dysfunction
- Induction of IgA Ab
What are the protective functions of commensal gut?
- Competition for niche (space)
- Competition for nutrients
- Production of antimicrobial factors and peptides
What are some disruptions that can lead to an imbalance of gut microbiota?
- Early Events
- Diet
- Antibiotics
What are examples of early events that can lead to an imbalance of gut microbiota?
- C section
2. Formula feeding (not breast feeding)
What is an example of a diet that can lead to an imbalance of gut microbiota?
- Western Diet
What do antibiotics affect in the gut microbiota?
Commensal microbiota (benefits the host)
