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PMID: 16819463 Published · ppublish English Journal Article Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review

The gut flora as a forgotten organ.

EMBO reports ·Vol. 7 ·No. 7 ·2006-07-00 ·Pages 688-93

O'Hara AM, Shanahan F

Abstract

The intestinal microflora is a positive health asset that crucially influences the normal structural and functional development of the mucosal immune system. Mucosal immune responses to resident intestinal microflora require precise control and an immunosensory capacity for distinguishing commensal from pathogenic bacteria. In genetically susceptible individuals, some components of the flora can become a liability and contribute to the pathogenesis of various intestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases. It follows that manipulation of the flora to enhance the beneficial components represents a promising therapeutic strategy. The flora has a collective metabolic activity equal to a virtual organ within an organ, and the mechanisms underlying the conditioning influence of the bacteria on mucosal homeostasis and immune responses are beginning to be unravelled. An improved understanding of this hidden organ will reveal secrets that are relevant to human health and to several infectious, inflammatory and neoplastic disease processes.

MeSH Terms
Animals Bacteria/immunology Digestive System/immunology,microbiology Digestive System Diseases/immunology,microbiology Germ-Free Life Homeostasis Humans Immunity, Mucosal Intestinal Mucosa/immunology,microbiology Models, Biological
Authors & Affiliations
2 authors, click to expand affiliations / ORCID
O'Hara Ann M
Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, University College Cork, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.
Shanahan Fergus
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Article Info
Journal
EMBO reports
Abbr.
EMBO Rep
ISSN
1469-221X
DOI
10.1038/sj.embor.7400731
Published
2006-07-00
Pages
688-93
Language
English
Region
England
NLM ID
100963049
PMCID
PMC1500832
Subset
IM
External Links
PubMed source DOI: 10.1038/sj.embor.7400731 PMC Full Text View journal details
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