Fecal microbiota

Fecal Microbiota

Fecal microbiota (pronounced: fee-kal my-kroh-bye-oht-uh), also known as gut flora or gut microbiota, refers to the complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of humans and other animals. The term is derived from the Latin words "faecalis" meaning "of the dregs" and "microbiota" which is a combination of "micro-" meaning small and "-biota" meaning life.

Composition

The fecal microbiota is composed of a diverse range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. The majority of these are bacteria, with the most common types being Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Other important groups include the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia.

Function

The fecal microbiota plays a crucial role in the host's health by aiding in digestion, producing vitamins, and protecting against harmful pathogens. It is also involved in the development and function of the immune system, and has been linked to various diseases such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), obesity, and mental health disorders.

Alterations in Fecal Microbiota

Changes in the composition of the fecal microbiota, known as dysbiosis, can have significant impacts on health. Factors that can cause dysbiosis include diet, stress, illness, and the use of antibiotics. Dysbiosis has been associated with a range of health problems, from digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) to systemic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.