About Human Microbiome
Humans live together with complex communities of bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses. These communities are called microbiomes. Most of the microbes that normally live on us do not cause disease, and many participate in digestion, chemical signaling, and interactions with the immune system.
Gut Microbiome
The large intestine contains especially dense microbial communities.
Learn MoreSkin Microbiome
Different areas of skin support different microbes.
Learn MoreOral Microbiome
The mouth contains complex biofilms on teeth, gums, and other surfaces.
Learn MoreMicrobiome Development
Microbial communities change rapidly during infancy and childhood.
Learn MoreMicrobial Diversity
There is no single identical 'normal' microbiome for every healthy person.
Learn MoreImmune Interactions
The immune system learns to respond differently to harmless residents and dangerous invaders.
Learn MoreAntibiotics and Microbiomes
Antibiotics can affect helpful bacteria as well as the target pathogen.
Learn MoreMicrobiome Research
DNA sequencing has transformed microbiome science.
Learn MoreGut Microbiome
Gut microbes use food compounds that reach the colon and produce many chemicals. Some of these molecules can be absorbed or interact with intestinal cells. Diet, age, medicines, environment, and disease can all change the community.
Skin Microbiome
Oily, dry, and moist body sites create different habitats. Normal skin microbes compete for resources and interact with immune defenses. Washing changes microbes temporarily, but skin is naturally a microbial ecosystem.
Oral Microbiome
Saliva, diet, tooth surfaces, oxygen levels, and brushing all influence oral communities. Dental plaque is a biofilm. Some community changes are associated with tooth decay or gum disease.
Microbiome Development
Birth environment, feeding, family contacts, pets, diet, medicine, and many other exposures affect which microbes arrive. The microbiome continues changing throughout life.
Microbial Diversity
People can have very different microbial species and still be healthy. Scientists therefore study patterns, functions, and long-term changes rather than looking for one perfect list of bacteria.
Immune Interactions
Microbes and immune cells communicate through many chemical signals. Normal microbes help shape immune development, while immune defenses help control where microbes can live.
Antibiotics and Microbiomes
The amount of disruption depends on the drug, dose, duration, and individual microbiome. Communities may recover over time, but some changes can last longer. This is one reason antibiotics should be used only when medically appropriate.
Microbiome Research
Many microbes are difficult to grow in the laboratory. Sequencing microbial DNA from a sample lets researchers identify organisms and genes without culturing every species separately.