Introduction to the Human Microbiome:
The human microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms residing in the body, especially the digestive tract.
It plays a crucial role in regulating health and diseases, influencing digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, immunity, and mental health.
Genomic Technologies and Human Microbiome:
Genomic technologies are vital for studying the human microbiome, as many microorganisms are not easily cultured in a lab.
The Human Microbiome Project, launched in 2012, utilized genome sequencing to provide insights into the complex microbial makeup of the human body.
Microbiome and Health:
A healthy human microbiome is essential for various physiological functions, such as digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and enzyme production.
Changes in microbiome composition, such as through antibiotic use or artificial interventions like fecal microbial transplants, can impact health conditions.
Genetic Variations and Gut Microbes:
Recent studies indicate that differences in genetic makeup can affect the diversity and abundance of gut microbes.
A study involving 9,015 individuals found a link between genetic variations, particularly in the ABO blood group locus, and the genes of gut microbes involved in metabolizing N-acetylgalactosamine.
Microbes, ABO Blood Groups, and Cardiometabolic Traits:
Genetic variants in the ABO blood group loci have been associated with cardiometabolic traits, lipid levels, blood vessel blocks, and even severe COVID-19 infections.
Microbial strains possessing specific gene clusters related to N-acetylgalactosamine metabolism show a strong association with the ABO locus, suggesting a potential link between the microbiome and cardiovascular disorders.
Microbes and Cancer Development:
Studies explore the link between gut microbes and human cancers, such as colorectal cancer.
N-Acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), is an amino sugar derivative of galactose
Administering a molecule called trans-3-indoleacrylic acid (IDA) or implanting the microbe Peptostreptococcus anaerobius in mice's guts induced colorectal cancer.
Microbiome and Neuronal Signaling:
Gut microbes, by producing vitamin B12, may influence neuronal signaling through the availability of free choline, a molecule essential for neurotransmitter acetylcholine synthesis.
Role of Microbiome in Urobilinogen Metabolism:
Researchers suggest the human microbiome's involvement in the metabolism of urobilinogen, the pigment responsible for the yellow color of urine.
Urobilinogen is produced in the body when the body metabolises bilirubin. And bilirubin is produced when the body metabolises haemoglobin in the blood.
A bacterial enzyme called bilirubin reductase (BilR) was identified as pivotal in reducing bilirubin to urobilinogen, emphasizing the gut-liver axis's role in maintaining bilirubin levels.
Implications for Future Healthcare:
Human genomic studies of the microbiome will play a crucial role in shaping personalized healthcare interventions in the future.
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