Work

Environmental Influences on the Human Microbiome and Implications for Noncommunicable Disease

Year: 2021

Type: review

Abstract: The human microbiome contributes metabolic functions, protects against pathogens, educates the immune system, and through these basic functions, directly or indirectly, affects most of our physiologic functions. Here, we consider the human microbiome and its relationship to several major noncommunicable human conditions, including orodigestive tract cancers, neurologic diseases, diabetes, and obesity. We also highlight the scope of contextual macroenvironmental factors (toxicological and chemical environment, built environment, and socioeconomic environment) and individual microenvironmental factors (smoking, alcohol, and diet) that may push the microbiota toward less healthy or more healthy conditions, influencing the development of these diseases. Last, we highlight current uncertainties and challenges in the study of environmental influences on the human microbiome and implications for understanding noncommunicable disease, suggesting a research agenda to strengthen the scientific evidence base.

Source: Annual Review of Public Health

DOI: 10.1146/annurev-publhealth-012420-105020

Authors: Jiyoung Ahn, Richard B. Hayes

Institutions: NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone’s Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University

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: hybrid

Funder: National Cancer Institute