Structure and Functions of the Gut Microbiome

Abstract

Over the last decade our understanding of human gut microbiology underwent a tremendous transformation. The limitations of culture-based methods have given way to Next Generation Sequencing techniques, allowing us to understand the microbial gut community in greater depth. The human GI-tract harbours one of the most complex and abundant ecosystems colonized by more than 100 trillion microorganisms, among which Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes are the major phyla. Although stable over long periods, the composition and functions of the microbiome may be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, mode of delivery, age, diet, geographic location and medical treatments. Dysbiosis, changes in microbiome structure, has been linked to inflammatory, functional and metabolic disorders such as IBD, IBS and obesity. However, it is still not clear whether these changes are a contributing factor or a result of the disease. This synopsis provides a chronological overview of the techniques used to study the gut microbiota and the current knowledge with respect to the stability and variability of microbiome composition and functions.

Distinct roles for dietary lipids and Porphyromonas gingivalis infection on atherosclerosis progression and the gut microbiota

“…The gastrointestinal tract is the largest reservoir of microbes in humans and is comprised of predominantly commensal bacteria [20, 21]. The intestinal microbiota is important for maintenance of mucosal barrier functions, metabolism, and immune development and homeostasis.…”

Criteria for selection of probiotics for effective therapy of gut microbiota disorders

“…Функциями микробиоты кишечника являются: ■ Формирование колонизационной резистентности [5]. ■ Регуляция газового состава, редокс-потенциала кишечника и других полостей организма хозяина [6].…”

“…■ Продукция ферментов, участвующих в метаболизме белков, углеводов, липидов, а также улучшение пищеварения и усиление перистальтики кишечника [7]. ■ Участие в водно-солевом, в т. ч. кальциевом, обмене [5]. ■ Участие в обеспечении эукариотических клеток энергией [8].…”

“…■ Участие в обеспечении эукариотических клеток энергией [8]. ■ Детоксикация экзогенных и эндогенных субстратов и метаболитов преимущественно за счет гидролитических и восстановительных реакций [5].…”

“…■ Продукция биологически активных соединений (амино кислоты, пептиды, гормоны, жирные кислоты, витамины) [5,9]. ■ Иммуногенная функция [5].…”