BIOL 223: Topic 9 (#2) - The Human Microbiome and Health

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to human microbiota, their functions and implications for health.

Microbiota

Microbial communities found in specific environments, such as the human body.

Human Microbiome

The collection of all microbiota found in and on the human body.

Resident Microbiota

Microbes that permanently inhabit a particular environment in the body.

Transient Microbiota

Microbes that temporarily occupy a particular environment in the body.

Actinobacteria

A phylum of bacteria known for its role in soil and human microbiota.

Firmicutes

A major group of bacteria, dominant in the gut microbiome.

Bacteroidetes

A phylum of bacteria prominent in the gut, involved in digesting complex molecules.

Lactobacillus

A genus of bacteria that ferments sugars and is found in various human environments.

Probiotics

Live microorganisms which provide health benefits when consumed.

Prebiotics

Non-digestible food ingredients that stimulate the growth of beneficial microbes.

Postbiotics

Bioactive compounds produced when beneficial bacteria digest fibers.

Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)

A treatment method that involves transferring fecal matter from a healthy donor.

SCFAs (Short Chain Fatty Acids)

Products of fermentation by gut bacteria; important for gut health.

Metagenomics

The study of genetic material recovered directly from environmental samples.

Human Microbiome Project

An initiative aimed at understanding the role of the human microbiome in health.

Diphtheroids

A group of Gram-positive bacteria, part of the normal skin microbiota.

Malassezia

A genus of yeast, significant in the skin microbiome, and associated with dandruff.

Gut Microbiome

The microbiota specifically found in the gastrointestinal tract.

pH of stomach

Highly acidic (around 2), crucial for digestion and pathogen control.

Bacterial Vaginosis

A condition characterized by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina.

Elastin

A protein that helps tissues in the body return to their original shape after stretching.

Crohn's Disease

A type of inflammatory bowel disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

A disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits.

Eubacterium

A genus of bacteria commonly found in the gut, important for digestion.

Clostridium

A genus of bacteria that includes several species relevant to human health.

Pathogenesis

The process by which a disease develops.

Inflammation

The body's response to injury or infection, causing redness and swelling.

Biofilm

A complex community of microorganisms adhering to a surface.

Noni fruit

A tropical fruit known for its potential health benefits and rich nutrient content.

Oligosaccharides

Short chains of sugars that can function as prebiotics.

Dietary Fiber

Indigestible portions of plant foods that promote gut health.

Microhabitats

Small, distinct environments within a larger ecosystem that support specific organisms.

Biodiversity

The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, including genetic diversity.