Work

Striking a Balance with Help from our Little Friends - How the Gut Microbiota Contributes to Immune Homeostasis.

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: The trillions of microbes that inhabit the human gut (the microbiota) together with the host comprise a complex ecosystem, and like any ecosystem, health relies on stability and balance. Some of the most important members of the human microbiota are those that help maintain this balance via modulation of the host immune system. Gut microbes, through both molecular factors (such as capsular components) and by-products of their metabolism (such as Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)), can influence both innate and adaptive components of the immune system, in ways that can drive both effector, and regulatory responses. Here we review how commensal microbes can specifically promote a dynamic balance of these immune responses in the mammalian gut.

Source: PubMed Central

Authors: Kathleen L Arnolds, Catherine A Lozupone

Institution: University of Colorado Anschutz

Language: English

Topic: Gut microbiota and health

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Award: Factors mediating gut microbiota dysbiosis and metabolic disease in HIV patients