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The gastrointestinal microbiome: a malleable, third genome of mammals

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Abstract

The nonpathogenic, mutualistic bacteria of the mammalian gastrointestinal tract provide a number of benefits to the host. Recent reports have shown how the aggregate genomes of gastrointestinal bacteria provide novel benefits by functioning as the third major genome in mammals along with the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. Consequently, efforts are underway to elucidate the complexity of the organisms comprising the unique ecosystem of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as those associated with other epidermal surfaces. The current knowledge of the gastrointestinal microbiome, its relationship to human health and disease with a particular focus on mammalian physiology, and efforts to alter its composition as a novel therapeutic approach are reviewed.

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Acknowledgment

This work was supported by NCI Grants CA084239 and CA105417 and NIDDK center Grant DK34987.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA

    Ian M. Carroll

  2. Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA

    Ian M. Carroll & David W. Threadgill

  3. Department of Genetics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA

    David W. Threadgill

  4. Department of Microbiology, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7615, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA

    Deborah S. Threadgill

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Carroll, I.M., Threadgill, D.W. & Threadgill, D.S. The gastrointestinal microbiome: a malleable, third genome of mammals. Mamm Genome 20, 395–403 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00335-009-9204-7

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