Understanding the Microbiome Universe

The microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that call our body home. Their presence, or lack thereof, have several consequences to our health and wellbeing. The microbiome mostly remains a mystery due to the fact that most microbiota from the gut cannot be cultured due to its reliance on its multi-microbial community. According to an article in Nature, it remains critical for a person to host a large variety of bacteria in order to maintain a healthy body. Our microbiome plays a significant role in key health markers like body weight, vitamin synthesis, and metabolism. In this study by Ziying Zhang, he and other researchers note how the microbiome even affects the body’s immune response in the gut. The presence of a certain type of bacteria called IECs even ward off pathogenic invasions. As a result, there is an established connection between the bacteria that lives in humans and how our body responds to certain foods and pathogens. 

Although our understanding of the human microbiome’s potential has only just started to become untapped, it already is starting to play a vital role in technology, culture, and commercialism. According to this article by Beth Greenhough, many companies are promoting their product’s benefits for the microbiome. In addition, probiotic supplements have established their popularity and skincare is beginning to incorporate them into their products. People wish to have a deeper understanding of this community so that they can support their own health. As a result, these product’s appeal has increased significantly. 

I think it is important to be updated on advances in this area of microbiology. There have already been many scientific advances due to our understanding of this complex community. I believe that there can be many benefits in understanding our own microbiome so that one can maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, I think it remains imperative to remember that this research is quite fresh, and that companies quickly are adjusting their marketing to fit a narrative that may or may not be true. So, as a result, I suggest that one ought to do their research and consult with their doctor in order to understand this microscopic community.