Human Microbiota Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and mechanisms related to human microbiota based on the lecture notes.

Human Microbiota

A complex community of microorganisms that reside in various parts of the human body without causing disease.

Colonization

The process by which microorganisms establish themselves in a particular area of the body.

Symbiosis

A biological interaction where two different organisms live together, which can be mutualistic, commensal, or parasitic.

Mutualism

A symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit, such as gut bacteria helping with digestion.

Commensalism

A symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed.

Resident Microbiota

Microorganisms that are a stable part of the human microbiota throughout life.

Transient Microbiota

Microorganisms that temporarily inhabit a particular area of the body.

Metagenomic DNA Sequencing

A method used to study the genetic material recovered directly from environmental samples to understand microbiome diversity.

Hygiene Hypothesis

The theory suggesting that a lack of early childhood exposure to infectious agents, microorganisms, and parasites increases susceptibility to allergic diseases.

Antimicrobial Compounds

Substances produced by microorganisms that inhibit the growth of other microbes.

Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)

A medical procedure that involves transferring stool from a healthy donor to a recipient to restore healthy microbiota.

Opportunistic Pathogens

Microorganisms that can cause disease when the host's immune system is compromised.

Biofilm

A structured community of microorganisms adhering to a surface, often protected by a slimy extracellular matrix.

Microbial Ecosystem

A community of microorganisms interacting with each other and their environment, characterized by their balance and dynamics.

Bacteroides spp.

A genus of bacteria that plays a critical role in the human gut microbiota, particularly in breaking down complex carbohydrates.