The Human Ecosystem is a comprehensive biological concept that views the human body not as a solitary entity but as a complex, integrated biological system that includes the host organism and its vast community of commensal, symbiotic, and sometimes pathogenic microorganisms. This ecosystem, primarily centered in the gastrointestinal tract, is essential for regulating metabolism, immune development, and the bioavailability of many compounds, including certain hormones. A balanced ecosystem is fundamental for maintaining health and influencing longevity engineering principles.
Origin
This term is derived from the ecological principle of an ecosystem, applied to the human body, particularly following the scientific advancements in understanding the human microbiome. It signifies a paradigm shift from viewing microbes as mere passengers or threats to recognizing their essential, integrated role in host physiology. The term emphasizes the interdependency between the human genome and the microbial metagenome.
Mechanism
The function of the Human Ecosystem relies on a mutualistic relationship where the host provides a stable environment and nutrients, and the microbes, in turn, perform critical metabolic functions that the host cannot. These functions include the fermentation of complex carbohydrates into short-chain fatty acids, the synthesis of certain vitamins, and the regulation of the immune system through continuous exposure and tolerance induction. Disruption of this microbial community, known as dysbiosis, can compromise systemic health.
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