The Lines of Defence - Microbiome

Question 1

Explain how the microbiome helps protect the human body against infection:

Answer 1

Microbiomes help protect the human body against infection as they help protect the host from becoming infected with more harmful micro-organisms by acting as a physical barrier on the normal body flora.

Question 2

How long do microbes usually stay with us?

Answer 2

Our microbes tend to resemble those of our parents and siblings - and stay with us for most of our lives.

Question 3

What are the different types of microbes?

Answer 3

There are different types of microbes because of the different organisms in our body like wet, oily and dry places.

Question 4

What do microbes do?

Answer 4

Microbes fight off infections, revving up and dampening down our immune systems.

Question 5

What are microbial genes called?

Answer 5

The Human Microbiome

Question 6

Microbes Definition:

Answer 6

A microorganism, especially a bacterium causing disease or fermentation.

Question 7

How the good microbes help our immune system:

Answer 7

• Provides competition for resources
• Produces substances that can kill other bacteria
• Promotes the production of antibodies
• Stimulates tissue growth
• Produces vitamins