The term ‘microbial ecology’ is used to refer to the study of microbes and their interactions with the environment, as well as with plants, animals and each other. Although they are the tiniest creatures on Earth, they have a deep impact on humans and the planet. That is why scientists believe the study of microbial ecology can lead us to find bett [..]

Also called antibacterials, they are a type of molecule that block the growth of certain bacteria and are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections as well as certain parasites. Antibiotics are useless against viruses, like the common cold or flu.

An antibody, also called immunoglobulin, is a protein produced by the body’s immune system in response to the detection of the presence of a perceived foreign substance. This substance, called antigen, can be a bacterium, a parasite, or even molecules like proteins. The antibodies recognise antigens and latch onto them in order to remove them from [..]

Any substance that can stimulate the production of antibodies and combine specifically with them.

Autoimmune disorder is the name given to a group of different conditions that arise when the immune system confuses its own healthy body tissues for antigens or foreign elements and attacks them in order to destruct them. The exact cause for the onset of these disorders is still unknown. There are around 80 different autoimmune disorders which seve [..]

Bacteria are a large group of prokaryotic microorganisms (cells lacking a nucleus, as opposed to eukaryotic ones, that have nucleus, and that form the human body) that were among the first life forms to appear on Earth. They are commonly found in most of the planet’s habitats and live in symbiotic (mutually beneficial), commensal (eating from the s [..]

Bacteria are a large group of prokaryotic microorganisms (cells lacking a nucleus, as opposed to eukaryotic ones, that have nucleus, and that form the human body) that were among the first life forms to appear on Earth. They are commonly found in most of the planet’s habitats and live in symbiotic (mutually beneficial), commensal (eating from the s [..]

A family of bacteria species naturally present in a mammal’s gut. You can also find these bacteria in fermented foods (such as dairy products) or in dietary supplements.

Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the abdomen swells and gets tight. More common in women, it can cause belly pain that varies from mild to intense. It is provoked by excess gas, when said gas does not pass through belching or flatulence and therefore builds up in the stomach and intestines, or by an excessive reaction to normal gas produc [..]

Is a species of bacteria that lives harmlessly in the gut of many people. In the gut’s microbial community, there is a balance between the “good” bacteria (beneficial) and the potentially harmful ones (pathogenic). Problems begin when there is an imbalance often due to antibiotic treatment. If the quantity of C difficile increases greatly, a variet [..]