Microbiome science explores the diverse communities of microorganisms bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea that inhabit various environments of the human body, including the gut, skin, oral cavity, and respiratory tract. These microbial ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining health, regulating immunity, and influencing metabolism, development, and even behavior.
The human gut microbiome, in particular, has emerged as a central focus due to its profound impact on nutrient absorption, inflammation control, and protection against pathogens. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in the microbiome, has been linked to a wide range of diseases including obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, neurological disorders, and certain cancers.