Exploring the human microbiome: Its role and impact on overall health and disease prevention

Abstract

Background: The human microbiome has emerged as a pivotal factor in health and disease, significantly influencing various physiological processes and disease outcomes. Despite advances in microbiome research, the integration of microbiome knowledge into clinical practice remains limited. This review aims to elucidate the role of the microbiome in health and disease, emphasizing its potential for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Aim: To provide a comprehensive overview of the human microbiome’s structure, function, and impact on overall health and disease prevention. The review seeks to bridge the gap between microbiome research and clinical application, facilitating a better understanding among medical professionals. Methods: The review synthesizes findings from recent microbiome studies, including those from large-scale initiatives such as the Human Microbiome Project and the MetaHIT consortium. It examines various methodologies used to study microbiome structure and function, including 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Results: The review highlights the diverse roles of the microbiome in health, such as its impact on immune system development, metabolic processes, and disease prevention. It also discusses the implications of microbiome research for various diseases, including infectious diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions.