Microbiota vs. Microbiome ~ Dr. Domenico Pratico' MD, FCPP
- Dr. Domenico Pratico
- 19 hours ago
- 4 min read
Microbiota vs. Microbiome - Definitions and Distinctions.
Learn what microbiota and microbiomes are, how to use these terms correctly and how they are connected to our health.
It is with increasing frequency that we hear or read about “gut microbiota” or in other instances the “gut microbiome” but with similar frequency definitions and distinctions of microbiota vs. microbiomes are unclear and as a result misused. The terms microbiota and microbiome are not interchangeable. Let's unravel the confusion and learn how they are properly distinguished and defined.
If we want to be precise, the word “microbiome” is used only when we want to refer to the collection of genomes (the nucleic acids, or genetic material such as DNA) that derive from all the bacteria and other microorganisms that live in a particular environment.
If, on the other hand, we want to specify the “place” where this material is located or found then we need to add the word “gut” if the environment is the gastrointestinal system, or for instance “skin” if this is the place of origin.
On the other hand, the term “microbiota” refers to the different types of bacteria and other microorganisms that are found in a specific environment. Like before, we will refer to “skin microbiota” if we refer to the skin of a living being, or “gut microbiota” if we refer to the microorganisms found in the gastrointestinal system of a living being.
After specifying the origin, we must indicate from which species the microbiota originates, therefore we can indicate “human gut microbiota”, “mouse gut microbiota”, etc. etc.
Studies have shown that in average the total human microbiota consists of 10 -100 trillion microorganisms in each person. Depending on the organ we consider, it is also known that the microbiota of the gut are different from the skin microbiota even when we consider their presence in the same individual.
Importantly, these microorganisms are not responsible, per se, for any disease since they co-exist with the host organ most of the time in a mutually beneficial relationship which we can call “symbiosis”. In fact, in most cases microbiota are the producers of specific substances (aka metabolites) that can be used by the host.
Microbiota can affect many aspects of our health such as:
Digestion ~ Breaks down complex carbohydrates like starches and fibers and synthesizes vitamins and amino acids, including vitamin B12, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that provide nutrients .
Immune system ~ Helps train and function the immune system, protects against pathogenic organisms, and promotes the maturation of immune cells.
Metabolism ~ Helps metabolize nutrients, xenobiotics, and drugs.
Several factors can affect the microbiota such as diet, drugs, and stress.
Emerging evidence suggests that changes in the microbiota can be associated also with changes in that specific organ function that at times can result in a disease state for the organ in question.
The change or an imbalance in the microbiota is often referred to as “dysbiosis”.
For instance, numerous studies have shown that certain changes in the skin microbiota may be closely associated with the development and exacerbation of common skin diseases such as acne. Acne is a multifactorial condition, and research suggests that an imbalance in the microbial communities can contribute significantly to its pathogenesis. This imbalance may lead to an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria which can trigger inflammatory responses. Furthermore, the skin microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function, highlighting the importance of a balanced microbial ecosystem in preventing skin diseases.
Similarly, an imbalance in the gut microbiota
has been linked to a range of chronic inflammatory conditions and various human diseases.
Dysbiosis can result from factors such as poor diet, antibiotic use, and lifestyle choices, leading to a reduction in microbial diversity and the proliferation of harmful bacteria. Emerging evidence indicates that this dysbiosis is not only associated with gastrointestinal disorders but can also play a role in the development of metabolic disorders, such as obesity and diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
The gut-brain axis, a complex communication network linking the gut and the brain, underscores how gut microbiota can influence mood and cognitive function, further emphasizing the critical role of maintaining a healthy microbiota.
How do we keep a healthy microbiota? Maintaining a healthy microbiota involves several key lifestyle and dietary choices. First and foremost, a balanced diet rich in fiber and probiotics is essential. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, extra virgin olive oil and fermented products like yogurt promote beneficial bacteria and promote a diverse microbiome. Yes, think the Mediterranean Diet.
Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and making regular physical activity a part of your life can support the overall health and are beneficial to good gut microbiota.
Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics and minimize processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats, as these can disrupt the delicate balance of the microbiota minimizing processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats.
And let's not forget the importance of stress management, maybe through mindfulness practices, yoga, and of course quality sleep. Taken together, these factors play a vital role in supporting a healthy microbiota.
Maintaining a robust and diverse microbiota ultimately enhances overall health and well-being.
If you are interested in reading more of my blogs:
Domenico Praticò, MD, holds the Scott Richards North Star Charitable Foundation Chair for Alzheimer’s Research and serves as a Professor and Founding Director of the Alzheimer’s Center at Temple, as well as a Professor of Neural Sciences at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.
For more information on the research conducted by Dr. Domenico Pratico, please visit this link.
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Stay updated with the work happening at Dr. Domenico Pratico's lab by visiting the Pratico Lab website.
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