human microbiome Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is the human microbiome?
The set of microorganisms that inhabit the human body.
True or False: The human microbiome only consists of bacteria.
False. The human microbiome includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes.
What is the main function of the human microbiome?
To help with digestion, protect against pathogens, and regulate the immune system.
Where is the human microbiome primarily located?
In the gut, skin, mouth, and other mucosal surfaces.
What is dysbiosis?
An imbalance in the microbial community of the human microbiome.
What factors can influence the composition of the human microbiome?
Diet, antibiotics, age, genetics, and environment.
What is the role of probiotics in the human microbiome?
To introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut to improve microbial balance.
What are some diseases that have been linked to disruptions in the human microbiome?
Obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, and allergies.
How does the human microbiome contribute to the immune system?
By training immune cells and providing a barrier against harmful pathogens.
What is the term for the collection of genes in the human microbiome?
The microbiome gene pool.
Fill in the blank: The human microbiome is estimated to contain around ___________ microbial cells.
100 trillion
What is the main difference between the gut microbiome of infants and adults?
Infants have a less diverse gut microbiome compared to adults.
True or False: The human microbiome is static and does not change over time.
False. The human microbiome can change in response to various factors.
What is the role of prebiotics in the human microbiome?
To provide nutrients for beneficial bacteria in the gut.
How can antibiotics impact the human microbiome?
By reducing the diversity of microbial species and potentially leading to dysbiosis.
What is the term for the study of the human microbiome and its interactions with the host?
Microbiome research.
What are some common methods used to analyze the human microbiome?
DNA sequencing, metagenomics, and microbial culturing.
True or False: The human microbiome is only found in the gut.
False. The human microbiome is found in various parts of the body.
What is the potential impact of the human microbiome on personalized medicine?
It could help tailor treatments based on an individual’s unique microbiome composition.
What can disrupt the human microbiome and lead to dysbiosis?
Antibiotics, poor diet, stress, and certain diseases.
What is the significance of the gut-brain axis in relation to the human microbiome?
It highlights the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain through the microbiome.
How does the human microbiome contribute to nutrient absorption?
By breaking down complex carbohydrates and producing certain vitamins.
What is the role of the skin microbiome?
To protect against pathogens and maintain skin health.
What is the term for the specific community of microbes that inhabit a particular body site?
Microbiota.
