Question

The goal of microbiome engineering is to a. eliminate an unwanted microbiome from the host. b. manipulate the composition of a microbiome to cause its selfdestruction. c. manipulate the composition of a microbiome to benefit the host. d. identify all of the microbial species within a microbiome. e. alter the genome of the host so that it can support a different microbiome.

Short answer

The correct choice is 'c. manipulate the composition of a microbiome to benefit the host'

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Concept

Microbiome engineering is a branch of science that aims at altering or manipulating the composition of the microbiome to produce certain desired effects. Specifically, it uses various methods to alter the microbial community for potential therapeutic applications or to maintain and improve health. To find the right answer, you would need to match the correct understanding of microbiome engineering with one of the options.

Compare the Options

Start comparing each of the given options with the understood concept of microbiome engineering. Begin by analyzing each option separately.

Select the Correct Option

Based on the analysis, you will find that option c. 'manipulate the composition of a microbiome to benefit the host' is the closest to the definition and objective of microbiome engineering. Hence, this should be the correct choice for this problem.

Key concepts

Microbiome Composition Manipulation

Microbiome composition manipulation is a cutting-edge field focused on changing the various species of microbes that exist in a particular environment, often within the gastrointestinal tract of humans or animals. It involves a delicate balance, understanding that each microorganism within the microbiome has a role and interacts with the host in different ways.

This manipulation can be achieved through a range of strategies, including probiotics, which introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, prebiotics, which promote the growth of helpful resident bacteria, or even fecal microbiota transplants, which involve transferring a healthy microbiome to an individual with an unbalanced microbial community. The goal is to create a symbiotic relationship between the host and its microbiome, enhancing health and preventing or treating disease. This concept ties directly into choosing option c. 'manipulate the composition of a microbiome to benefit the host' from the exercise problem.

Therapeutic Applications of Microbiomes

The therapeutic applications of microbiomes have generated a considerable amount of research due to their potential to treat and prevent a wide range of diseases. From metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and even mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, the microbiome is being targeted as a key player.

Microbiome therapies could involve personalized medicine approaches, where treatments are tailored to the individual's unique microbial makeup.

Understanding the Microbiome-Disease Link

By understanding the link between certain microbial compositions and diseases, scientists aim to manipulate the microbiome to shift it towards a healthier state. These interventions can support the body's natural ability to combat illnesses, arguably a less invasive and more natural approach than traditional pharmaceuticals. This exploration of potential solutions is in line with the answer identified in the exercise, emphasizing microbiome manipulation for the host's benefit.

Microbial Community Alteration

Microbial community alteration is akin to re-engineering an ecosystem. Just as an ecologist might work to restore balance in a disrupted natural habitat, microbiome engineers strive to modify the community of microorganisms for a particular purpose. This can occur through either additive or reductive processes: introducing new species to enhance beneficial functions or reducing harmful species' prevalence.

There are tools at our disposal for this venture, such as antibiotics, which can be used to target and diminish pathogenic bacteria, thereby allowing commensal or beneficial microbes to thrive in their stead. Similarly, certain dietary changes can promote the growth of desirable microbes, which consequently can outcompete and diminish the harmful ones.

Diverse Microbial Ecosystems for Health

The achievement of a diverse and resilient microbial ecosystem is central to the host's well-being, as it can improve immune function, enhance nutrient absorption, and even influence behavior and mood. Aligning with the exercise, altering the microbial community is not about destruction but rather recalibration to optimize health outcomes.