The Microbial World
Microorganisms, Our Constant Companions
Microorganisms are everywhere, and though small, their activities have tremendous impacts on everything in our biosphere. As you learn more about microbiology you will realize that many of our day-to-day interactions with the world are influenced, for better or worse, by microbial life. Indeed, hundreds of trillions of bacteria are working within your body now to digest your last meal. The total complement of microbial cells in and on your body—your microbiome—contains thousands of species each adapted to grow best in a particular part of your body. For example, your gut microbiome encodes enzymes that help digest your food and synthesize vitamins critical to your health. The composition of your microbiome changes in response to your diet, your genes, your health, and the medicines you take. Our microbiome is absolutely essential to our health and well-being, yet we are only beginning to understand the diverse ways in which we depend upon our gut microorganisms.
- المعلم: RIBA AMAR