The human microbiota is the collection of billions of microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, and viruses—that live in symbiosis with our body and play a fundamental role in our health. There is not just one human microbiota, but 4 main distinct microbiotas that inhabit specific areas of our body, where they perform specific functions that support our health, in particular:
- Gut microbiota: it is the most studied and plays a central role in our physiology, contributing to the proper functioning of the metabolic, immune, and central nervous systems, as well as being essential for protection against pathogens.
- Vaginal microbiota: it helps protect against infections and maintain the balance of the vaginal environment. Its health is essential to reduce the risk of recurrent bacterial or fungal infections.
- Oral microbiota: it contributes to oral and dental health, also influencing systemic health. It is an ally in the prevention of cavities and periodontitis.
- Urinary microbiota: it contributes to the protection of the urinary tract and its proper functioning. A balanced microbiota helps prevent recurrent infections and supports the health of the female and male urinary tract.
Importanza del microbiota per la salute del nostro organismo
Each of these microbiotas is like a small ecosystem that works in harmony with our body, and their homeostasis is essential to preserving our health. When the balance of a microbiota is disrupted, this is known as dysbiosis. Dysbiosis can manifest with local disorders—such as recurrent infections, inflammation, or digestive issues—and can also have repercussions on the individual’s overall health. Moreover, several diseases have been associated with microbiota dysbiosis, including:
- Irritable bowel syndrome, IBD, obesity/diabetes, atopic dermatitis (Gut microbiota)
- Bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, pregnancy complications (Vaginal microbiota)
- Cavities, periodontitis, cardiovascular diseases (Oral microbiota)
- Recurrent cystitis, chronic urinary infections (Urinary microbiota)
Caratterizzazione del microbiota
For this reason, it is essential to accurately monitor and characterize the health status of each microbiota, precisely and robustly describing its diversity and microbial profile. In this way, it is possible to determine whether the system is in balance (eubiosis) or in a dysbiotic state, and to understand the role it plays in our health.
In the case of a dysbiotic microbiota, it becomes crucial to identify the specific dysbiotic transition by determining which and how many microorganisms are altered compared to a healthy microbiota, whether decreased or increased. This approach makes it possible to develop personalized intervention strategies aimed at restoring a balanced microbiota, or eubiotic state, capable of optimally supporting our health.
Salute del microbiota intestinale negli animali domestici
Even domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, have a gut microbiota that plays an essential role in their health. This community of microorganisms contributes to digestive processes by supporting the proper absorption of nutrients, as well as regulating metabolism, the immune system, and the nervous system, and is also essential for protection against pathogens.
When the gut microbiota loses its natural balance—a condition known as dysbiosis—animals may experience digestive disorders, intestinal inflammation, food sensitivities, or reduced immune defenses (with a consequent risk of systemic diseases). Several conditions in dogs and cats have been linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis, including:
- Chronic gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, vomiting), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), obesity, food allergies and intolerances, atopic dermatitis.
Monitoring and precisely characterizing the gut microbiota of animals is essential to understanding their health status. Analyzing microbial diversity and profiling makes it possible to determine whether the system is in balance (eubiosis) or in a state of imbalance (dysbiosis).
In the presence of dysbiosis, it is important to identify which microorganisms are altered—either in excess or deficient—compared to a healthy microbiota. This makes it possible to define targeted intervention strategies to support the recovery of balance, thereby promoting the animal’s health in the best possible way.
Scopri la salute del tuo microbiota o del tuo animale
Do you want to better understand the health of your microbiota or your pet’s? Our tests analyze the microbiota in detail, offering you a clear picture of its microbial composition, allowing you to determine whether it is in a state of eubiosis or dysbiosis, and, in the latter case, providing clear guidance for restoring a healthy microbiota. Discover our products through the link below.