microbiomehost

The term microbiomehost describes the integrated ecosystem formed by the microbiome and its host organism. The relationship is bidirectional: microbes influence host physiology, and the host provides habitat and resources. It includes various host-associated microbiomes (gastrointestinal, skin, oral, vaginal) and the systemic effects of their interactions.

Composition and function: Microbiota include bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and eukaryotes; their collective genes (the microbiome) contribute to metabolism, immune education, barrier integrity, development, and signaling. Host factors such as genetics, diet, age, and immune status shape microbiome composition.

Methods and study approaches: Researchers use sequencing technologies (16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics), culture-based approaches (culturomics), and host phenotyping. Model systems include germ-free and gnotobiotic animals. Longitudinal studies help track dynamics and responses to interventions like diet change, antibiotics, or probiotics.

Dynamics and health implications: Microbiome-host interactions influence digestion, nutrient absorption, energy balance, immune system maturation, and disease susceptibility. Dysbiosis, or disruption of balance, has been associated with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, allergies, and infections, though causal links vary across contexts.

Significance and challenges: Understanding microbiomehost informs medicine, agriculture, and ecology. Challenges include disentangling cause and effect, inter-individual variability, ethical considerations, and translating findings from models to humans.