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Review
. 2015 Dec 3;163(6):1326-32.
doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.11.032.

From Hype to Hope: The Gut Microbiota in Enteric Infectious Disease

Affiliations
Review

From Hype to Hope: The Gut Microbiota in Enteric Infectious Disease

Peter T McKenney et al. Cell. .

Abstract

One of the clearest functions of the gut microbiota in humans is resistance to colonization by enteric bacterial pathogens. Reconstitution of the microbiota offers an exciting therapeutic approach, but great challenges must be overcome.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Colonization resistance
The gut microbiome contributes to colonization resistance through at least 4 inter-related functions. 1) Direct inhibition of neighboring bacteria via the production of toxic compounds. 2) Maintenance of the mucus barrier and underlying intestinal epithelium. 3) Regulation of the immune reponse. 4) Efficient utilization of ingested and endogenous host nutrients.

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