Microbiom

MICROBIOTA

The microbiota is the sum of all the microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi and others) that collectively inhabit a particular ecosystem or organism - for example, the human gut, skin or oral cavity. In the human body, the gut microbiota is most often studied because it plays a key role in processing food, supporting immune function and maintaining overall health.

Previously, the term 'microbiota' was used to describe the same, but today's science prefers the term 'microbiota' as it more appropriately conveys the diversity and complexity of communities of microorganisms. In addition to digestion and immune functions, the microbiota is also involved in the production of important substances (e.g. vitamins) and protects the organism from unwanted microbes.

Specialist resources (ISO 690)

  • HUMAN MICROBIOME PROJECT CONSORTIUM. Structure, function and diversity of the healthy human microbiome. Nature. 2012, vol. 486, no. 7402, pp. 207-214. ISSN 0028-0836. DOI: 10.1038/nature11234.
  • LLOYD-PRICE, Jason, et al. Strains, functions and dynamics in the expanded Human Microbiome Project. Nature. 2017, vol. 550, no. 7674, pp. 61-66. ISSN 0028-0836. DOI: 10.1038/nature23889.

MICROBIOME

The microbiome is the sum of all the genetic information (i.e., genomes) of all the microorganisms that inhabit a particular ecosystem or organism. Simply put, if "microbiota" refers to the microorganisms themselves (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.), then "microbiome" is their collective "genetic fingerprint".

Microbiome

Currently, the terms 'microbiota' and 'microbiome' are sometimes used interchangeably. However, the precise distinction is particularly important in scientific research:

  • Microbiota: the collection of all microorganisms.
  • Microbiome: the genetic information (genomes) of these microorganisms.

The microbiome is intensively studied, especially in the context of human health. Its analysis helps to understand how microorganisms affect digestion, immunity, the production of important substances (such as vitamins) and how they contribute to the prevention of many diseases.

MICROORGANISM

A microorganism is a living organism that is so small that it usually cannot be observed with the naked eye. Examples include bacteria, viruses, fungi (yeasts or moulds), unicellular protozoa or cyanobacteria. These microscopic life forms are present in a variety of environments - in the air, in water, in soil and inside organisms. In humans, they are involved in digestion, support the proper functioning of the immune system and may also be the cause of some infectious diseases.

Microorganism

Importance of microorganisms:

  • Ecology and nutrient cycling: They ensure the decomposition of organic matter and recycling of nutrients in nature.
  • Human health: They can be beneficial (e.g. symbiotic bacteria in the digestive tract) but also pathogenic (causing infections).
  • Industry and biotechnology: They are used in food production (e.g. yoghurt, cheese, beer, wine), wastewater treatment or in the production of pharmaceuticals (e.g. antibiotics).

GUT-BRAIN AXIS

The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the digestive tract (including the gut microbiota) and the brain. This system connects neural, hormonal and immune signals and thus influences not only digestion, but also emotions, behavior and overall health.

How does it work?

Nerve communication: The vagus nerve (called the nervus vagus), which connects the brain and the digestive tract, plays a major role.

Hormonal and chemical signals: Hormones and neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin) are produced in the gut and can affect brain activity - and vice versa.

Gut microbiota: Beneficial bacteria in the gut produce substances that affect the nervous system. Disrupting the balance of the microbiota can lead to digestive, psychological or immune problems.

Why is the gut-brain axis important?

Mental well-being: Changes in the gut environment (e.g. stress, poor diet or antibiotic use) can contribute to anxiety, depression or mood disorders.

Immune system: Most immune cells are found in the gut, so the interplay between the gut microbiota and immunity can influence resistance to infections or allergies.

Brain development: During childhood and adolescence, the gut-brain axis plays an important role in the maturation of the nervous system.

GUT-SKIN AXIS

The gut-skin axis represents a complex bidirectional connection between the gastrointestinal tract (especially the gut microbiota) and the skin. As with the better known gut-brain axis, nervous, immune and hormonal signals play an important role.

How does it work?

The immune system: Most of the immune cells and mechanisms are located in the gut. The state of the gut microbiota (the balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria) therefore influences inflammatory processes, which can also manifest in the skin (e.g. in the form of acne or eczema).

Metabolites of the microbiota: Intestinal bacteria produce a number of substances (e.g. short-chain fatty acids) that can affect the condition of the skin - from its hydration to its natural defences.

Hormonal and neural connections: Hormones and neurotransmitters can modulate skin processes, including sebum production or inflammatory reactions.

Why is the gut-skin axis important?

Skin diseases: Imbalances in the gut microbiota can contribute to the development or worsening of skin problems (acne, rosacea, eczema, etc.).

Overall health: The gut and skin are important barriers to the body that prevent the entry of harmful substances. Thus, their relationship with each other is key to maintaining a proper immune response and protecting the body.

Therapeutic approaches: In recent years, research has explored ways to use modification of the gut microbiome (through probiotics, prebiotics or dietary changes) to improve skin health.

MICROBIOME COMMUNICATION

Microbiome communication refers to the mutual exchange of information between microorganisms (e.g. bacteria) and between microorganisms and a host (human or other animal). Through this connection, bacteria can in the gut can "talk" to our immune or nervous system, and thus influence a wide range of bodily functions.

The main forms of communication

01

Chemical signals (e.g. quorum sensing)

Microorganisms secrete small molecules (signal substances) that can be recognised by other bacteria in their environment. This allows them to communicate information about population density and to coordinate their behaviour (e.g. toxin production or formation of a protective biofilm).

02

Metabolite production

Bacteria and other microorganisms in the gut produce various compounds (e.g. short-chain fatty acids - SCFAs) that enter the bloodstream and act on cells in various organs (e.g. liver, brain, skin). In this way, they can regulate metabolism, immunity and mood.

03

Influencing host receptors

There are special receptors on cells in the human body (e.g. immune cells) that respond to molecules produced by microorganisms. For example, signals from the microbiota can promote anti-inflammatory processes or, conversely, trigger an immune response.

Why is microbiome communication important?

Immunity and body defense: The balance between "friendly" and "pathogenic" bacteria affects the body's ability to defend itself against infections and inflammatory diseases.

Metabolic health: Proper communication in the microbiome supports nutrient processing, regulates energy expenditure and helps prevent obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Nervous system: Gut bacteria can communicate with the brain (gut-brain axis) through chemical signals, which affects mood, anxiety and depression.

SCFA (Short-Chain Fatty Acids) as communication molecules

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are organic compounds with short carbon chains (usually 2-6 carbon atoms) that are formed primarily by the fermentation of dietary fiber and other indigestible carbohydrates by intestinal bacteria. The most common representatives are acetate, propionate and butyrate.

How are they formed and why are they important?

01

Production in the gut

SCFAs are formed by the activity of the gut microbiota, which "breaks down" dietary fiber that our own digestive enzymes cannot break down.

02

Energy source

Butyrate, in particular, is the main source of energy for the cells of the intestinal mucosa (enterocytes), thus supporting its health and functionality.

03

Regulation of the immune system

SCFAs have anti-inflammatory effects, influence the production and functioning of immune cells and contribute to the balance of immune reactions in the body.

04

Communication molecules

SCFAs act as signalling (communication) molecules - they can bind to specific receptors on the surface of cells, thereby influencing processes related to metabolism, appetite, and brain function (e.g. via the gut-brain axis).

Effects on health

Metabolic processes: They help regulate blood sugar levels and may contribute to the prevention of metabolic disorders (e.g. obesity or type 2 diabetes).

Gut defense: They keep the intestinal barrier in good condition, preventing excessive passage of pollutants and inflammation.

Promote gut balance: Contribute to the balance between "friendly" and pathogenic microorganisms in the gut.

GIT (Gastrointestinal tract)

The gastrointestinal tract (often abbreviated as GIT) is a system of organs that provides for the intake, processing, absorption of nutrients and excretion of waste substances. In the human body, it includes organs from the oral cavity to the rectum, i.e:

Mouth and esophagus - mechanical and chemical processing of food, its transport to the stomach.

Stomach - thorough mixing of food and further breakdown of nutrients by hydrochloric acid and enzymes.

Small intestine - the main site of digestion and absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream.

Large intestine - absorption of water and minerals, formation of stool and important role of gut microbiota.

Rectum - the end of the digestive system where undigested food residues are eliminated.

The importance of the GIT for health

Digestion and Nutrition: Processing of food, providing energy and nutrients for cells.

Immune function: A significant part of the immune system is concentrated in the gut, where it helps protect the body from infections.

Regulation of metabolic processes: Through the gut microbiota and nutrient absorption, the GIT influences a number of metabolic pathways.

Cooperation with other systems: The GIT is connected to the nervous and endocrine systems (e.g. via the gut-brain axis).

🏆 Summary: fascinating microbiome numbers

MCB

📊  39 trillion bacteria in the body

📊  1-2 kg of gut microbiome weight

3 million genes in the microbiome

90% of serotonincomes from the gut

70% of immunity is linked to the microbiota

📊  Up to 50% ofmicrobiota diversitycan be lost after antibiotics

📊  Fiber fermentation contributes 10% of thebody's energy

MCB

The microbiome is a fascinating ecosystem that influences metabolism, immunity, psyche and longevity. We should therefore actively take care of its health! 🚀

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