The world of microbiology has undergone a paradigm shift regarding our view of our relationship with the microbes that live in and on us, now termed “the human biome…”
The world of microbiology has undergone a paradigm shift regarding our view of our relationship with the microbes that live in and on us, now termed “the human biome.” The most recent issue of Endeavors highlights how researchers from the UNC Department of Microbiology and Immunology are leading the front on understanding the complex interactions and relationships between humans and bacteria. Dr. Balfour Sartor is an M.D. who is investigating how immune responses to commensal bacteria or alterations in normal flora may be a factor in the development of Crohn’s Disease. Highlighted in the article are details on how he and his lab are investigating prebiotics, probiotics and the effect of diets high in sucrose and fructose on gut flora. The article also details Dr. Matt Wolfgang’s research, which investigates the relationship between the progression of cystic fibrosis disease and changing bacterial profiles that occur in lung tissue during different aspects of disease. To read the full article, click here.