Gut Feeling: The Microbes in Charge

Our bodies are inhabited by trillions of microbial cells, collectively known as the microbiome, most of which live in our guts. In a healthy individual, these microbes coexist peacefully, playing a vital role in digestion, supporting the immune system and influencing overall well-being. The gut microbiome is now considered so important that it's often referred to as an extra 'organ'. The types of microbes that thrive in the gut are strongly influenced by diet. But how can we maintain a healthy microbiome? Join us as we explore how food choices shape the gut ecosystem and affect our health and well-being.

The human body is colonised by trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea. The majority of these inhabit the gut, collectively referred to as the gut microbiota, and are known to play a role in human health and disease. Emerging evidence has shown the existence of a gut-brain axis - information exchange between the gut microbiota and the brain. Intriguingly, this microbial-host interplay has the potential to influence brain development and function, including regulation of emotional behaviour and cognition. Can our microbial passengers modulate the way we think?

Commensal bacteria are naturally occurring microbes that have evolved alongside us and form a symbiotic relationship with our bodies. A diverse and balanced gut bacteria community is essential for maintaining overall health, as a variety of bacterial species can compensate for missing ones when our environment changes. Interestingly, certain types of bacteria have also been found to strengthen our immune system, helping it recognize and attack diseases, including cancer, when used alongside immunotherapy. However, many questions remain. Do some “harmful” bacteria actually cause cancer? Or does cancer itself change the balance of bacteria in our bodies? In this talk, I will introduce some promising strategies that scientists are exploring to modify the microbiome in ways that could boost our immune system and improve cancer treatment.