Microbe-Human Interactions: Infection and Disease

These flashcards cover the key terms and concepts related to microbe-human interactions, focusing on infection, disease, and the roles of resident and transient microbiota.

Colonization

The process by which microbes stick around and settle in the body.

Infection

Invasion of pathogenic microbes that penetrate body defenses, enter tissues, and multiply.

Disease

A pathologic state that results from damage to or disruption of tissues and organs, which is not necessarily microbial in nature.

Infectious disease

Disruption of a tissue or organ caused by microbes or their products.

Resident microbiota

Normal microbiota found in the body that are mostly mutualist or commensal microbes.

Microbial antagonism

The phenomenon where normal microbiota exclude potential pathogens.

Transient microbes

Microbes that do not normally reside in the body, just passing through.

Opportunists

Microbes that can cause disease when given an opportunity due to host condition changes.

Probiotics

Beneficial live bacteria that contribute to the health of the host.

Prebiotics

Substances that promote the growth of beneficial microbes in the gut.

Hygiene hypothesis

Theory suggesting that reduced exposure to microbes may lead to an increased incidence of allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Symbionts

Organisms that live in close association with a host and may provide mutual benefits.