The human microbiome is defined as the entirety of micro-organism living on and in the human body. It can also be called microbiota or microflora. It is an extension of ourselves; it plays a protective role and is an integral part of the barrier function of our skin.
The concept and the name are quite new. It really started to be talked about in 2012, when the Human Microbiome Project was completed. Using the new technique of genetic sequencing, the aim of this program was to get a map of all bacteria living on humans. The results are amazing: it is literally a whole new world right under our noses (and ON your nose, and IN your nose…).
To put it simply, it redefines what it means to be human. 50% of cells in your body are bacterial cells and an even higher percentage of your DNA is bacterial. The communication and interaction between the ‘you’ you and the ‘bacterial’ you is extremely intense. It turns out that your microbiome helps you absorbs food, trains your immune system, regulates your mood… and it seems like every day we are discovering new roles that it plays. Think about it as a new multi-function organ, or even an extension of your self.
Yes, you sure do. Bacteria Here, There and Eve-ry-whe-re. This is A Good Thing. Generally we talk about the following microbiomes: the gut microbiome, our favourite, the skin microbiome (it keeps you protected against aggressions, keeps your immune system in check and reduces inflammation),the vagina, the mouth, the nose and the respiratory system microbiomes. All still quite uncharted territories. This new research opens up a whole world of possibilities and the future of the microbiome research looks bright and very sunny. How wonderful that Gallinée is a part of it.
