Reciprocal Interaction between Commensal Microbiota and Mucosal Immune System

Reciprocal Interaction between Commensal Microbiota and Mucosal Immune System

The human gut harbors an approximate 100 trillion microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, protozoans and viruses. These organisms constitute an exceptionally diverse and dynamic microbial ecosystem. The vast majority of gut microbiota is bacteria, which comprised of 500-1000 different species. The enteric bacterial communities play crucial roles in the maintenance of intestinal homoeostasis and the protection against colonization by opportunistic pathogens.Intestinal mucosal surfaces directly interface with a dense and diverse microbial population. Under normal circumstances, the host could peacefully exist together with these vast, diverse and dynamic bacterial populations and their potentially inflammatory components.