Gut microbiota
Gut microbiota
Gut microbiota (pronunciation: /ɡʌt/ /ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.baɪˈoʊ.tə/), also known as gut flora or gut microbiome, 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 gut, meaning "stomach", and the Greek microbiota, meaning "small life".
Composition
The gut microbiota is composed of a diverse range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. The majority of these microorganisms are bacteria, with the most common types being Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Other important groups include the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia.
Function
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the host's health by contributing to a variety of physiological functions. These include digestion of food, production of vitamins, regulation of the immune system, and protection against harmful pathogens. Disruptions in the gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis, can lead to a range of health problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, and mental health disorders.
Factors affecting gut microbiota
Several factors can influence the composition and function of the gut microbiota. These include diet, age, genetics, use of medications (particularly antibiotics), and environmental factors. Research is ongoing to understand the complex interactions between these factors and the gut microbiota.
Research and future directions
Research into the gut microbiota is a rapidly growing field, with potential implications for a wide range of medical conditions. Future research directions include the development of probiotics and prebiotics to manipulate the gut microbiota, and the use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a treatment for certain diseases.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gut microbiota
- Wikipedia's article - Gut microbiota
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