The microbiome – what is it anyway?
The microbiome is all of the microorganisms that colonize an organism, that is: bacteria, archaea, viruses and eukaryotic microbes. The number of microbial unicellular organisms has an estimated ratio of approximately 10:1 to the body cells of an adult. These microbial ecosystems primarily colonize the gastrointestinal tract as biofilms although they are also found in other parts of the body, in cavities and mucous membranes, and have a lasting effect on bodily functions. Bacterial DNA has now been detected in almost every organ. The effect of bacteria on the immune system, liver and brain function, digestion, inflammation, bone formation and breakdown, muscle regeneration, kidney function and the heart are currently the subject of intensive research.