Functions of microbiota
The microbiota has different functions and benefits for the human body. It plays a central role in the development of mucosal immunity, as it is the largest surface area in contact with antigens of the external environment, as well as, the development of systemic immunity. It also acts a protection by forming a physical barrier against incoming pathogens and contributes greatly to the maturation of the structure and function of the GIT.
In addition, it has been found that the microbiota benefits are not confined to the GIT only, but they go beyond that to help in the development of both central and peripheral neural processes which could ultimately play a part in the regulation of mood and behavior.
Moreover, the microbiota has also been found to play a role in weight management, as well as, maximizing the absorption and uptake of nutrients from diet. Research efforts have been recently focusing on the link between gut microbiota and the etiology of various human diseases e.g. obesity, allergy, type-1 diabetes and autism. Human microbiota appears to contribute greatly to the host’s growth and development, and that is why, it is normal to predict that a lot of diseases are associated somehow to the imbalance or disturbances to this complex community.