Supra-organismal interactions in the human intestine.

Laura Glendinning,Andrew Free

doi:10.3389/fcimb.2014.00047

Abstract

OPINION article Front. Cell. Infect. Microbiol., 23 April 2014Sec. Microbiome in Health and Disease https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2014.00047

Highlights

The term “supraorganism” refers to a collection of individuals which behave as a single unit with enhanced function
Current evidence presents a picture of prevailing homoeostasis between host, microbiome and virome consistent with the description of a supraorganism, which can enter a disrupted alternative state termed “dysbiosis.” Here we review this evidence and the potential for the adoption of supra-organismal approaches toward the treatment and prevention of dysbiosis in the future
The bacterial community comprises only a small subset of known phyla, suggesting strong selection of species adapted to the host environment and geared to a neutral or mutually-beneficial relationship with the host (Turnbaugh et al, 2009; The Human Microbiome Project Consortium, 2012)

Summary

Introduction

The term “supraorganism” (which we prefer to the more common but slightly less informative “superorganism”) refers to a collection of individuals which behave as a single unit with enhanced function. Current evidence presents a picture of prevailing homoeostasis between host, microbiome and virome consistent with the description of a supraorganism, which can enter a disrupted alternative state termed “dysbiosis.” Here we review this evidence and the potential for the adoption of supra-organismal approaches toward the treatment and prevention of dysbiosis in the future.

Results

Conclusion