The Microbiome, Metabolism, and Networks in Precision Nutrition

Abstract

The human microbiota comprises a diverse community of commensal and symbiotic microorganisms, namely, archaea, viruses, eukarya, and bacteria coexisting at different sites of the body. The genomes and ecological context of these microbial cells are referred to as the microbiome . Multiple habitats, including the gastrointestinal tract , skin, vagina, and oral cavity , are colonized by microbiota that are equally as abundant as our human cells. There is considerable habitat-specificity in microbiota community composition, with unique populations colonizing each body site. The relative contributions of the microbiota at each body niche or habitat to overall human health are not yet clearly defined but are likely dependent on a combination of factors, including the nature of the disease condition, the overall health of the host, diet, and lifestyle factors. The gastrointestinal tract houses the greatest repertoire and diversity of microbes, dominated by bacteria, and it is of particular interest, given its location at the pivotal interface between exogenous dietary intake and endogenous nutrient metabolism.