Human microbiota

Human Microbiota

The Human Microbiota (pronunciation: /ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.baɪˈoʊ.tə/) refers to the aggregate of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microscopic life forms, that reside on or within human tissues and biofluids. The term is derived from the Greek words "micro" (small) and "biota" (life).

Etymology

The term "microbiota" is derived from the Greek "micro" meaning small and "biota" meaning life. It was first used in the mid-20th century to describe microorganisms that inhabit a particular environment.

Composition

The human microbiota consists of a diverse community of microorganisms. The largest populations of microbes reside in the gut, particularly in the large intestine, but they can also be found in various other parts of the body such as the skin, mouth, nose, and vagina. The gut microbiota is dominated by bacteria, with Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes being the most abundant phyla.

Function

The human microbiota plays a crucial role in the host's health. It aids in digestion, synthesizes vitamins, trains the immune system, and protects against pathogenic microbes. Disruptions in the microbiota, known as dysbiosis, can lead to various health problems, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and mental health disorders.

Related Terms

• Microbiome: The collective genomes of the microorganisms in a particular environment.
• Probiotics: Live bacteria and yeasts that are good for health, especially the digestive system.
• Prebiotics: Substances that induce the growth or activity of beneficial microorganisms.
• Symbiosis: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.

This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.