Intestinal flora
Intestinal flora refers to the microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms, which include bacteria, viruses, and fungi, play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the host organism.
Overview[edit | edit source]
The intestinal flora, also known as the gut microbiota, is a complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of humans and other animals. This community includes bacteria, archaea, viruses, and eukaryotic microbes. The gut microbiota is involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including digestion, immune function, and metabolic homeostasis.
Composition[edit | edit source]
The composition of the intestinal flora varies widely among individuals, depending on factors such as diet, age, and health status. However, the majority of the gut microbiota in healthy adults is made up of two dominant bacterial phyla: Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes. Other, less abundant phyla include the Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Actinobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Cyanobacteria.
Functions[edit | edit source]
The intestinal flora performs several important functions:
- Digestion: The gut microbiota assists in the digestion of food, particularly complex carbohydrates, which the host organism cannot digest on its own.
- Immune function: The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the development and function of the host's immune system.
- Metabolic homeostasis: The gut microbiota is involved in the regulation of the host's metabolism, including the metabolism of lipids and amino acids.
Health implications[edit | edit source]
Alterations in the composition of the intestinal flora, known as dysbiosis, have been associated with a variety of health problems, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Research is ongoing to better understand the relationship between the gut microbiota and health, and to develop strategies for manipulating the gut microbiota to improve health.
See also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
