Open AccessModulation of the microbial ecology of the human colon by probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics to enhance human health: An overview of enabling science and potential applications
Author(s) -
Rastall Robert A.,
Gibson Glenn R.,
Gill Harsharnjit S.,
Guarner Fransisco,
Klaenhammer Todd R.,
Pot Bruno,
Reid Gregor,
Rowland Ian R.,
Sanders Mary Ellen
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
fems microbiology ecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.377
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 1574-6941
pISSN - 0168-6496
DOI - 10.1016/j.femsec.2005.01.003
Subject(s) - biology , synbiotics , prebiotic , probiotic , microbial ecology , human health , gut flora , population , microbiology and biotechnology , computational biology , ecology , bacteria , food science , genetics , immunology , environmental health , medicine
The application of probiotics and prebiotics to the manipulation of the microbial ecology of the human colon has recently seen many scientific advances. The sequencing of probiotic genomes is providing a wealth of new information on the biology of these microorganisms. In addition, we are learning more about the interactions of probiotics with human cells and with pathogenic bacteria. An alternative means of modulating the colonic microbial community is by the use of prebiotic oligosaccharides. Increasing knowledge of the metabolism of prebiotics by probiotics is allowing us to consider specifically targeting such dietary intervention tools at specific population groups and specific disease states.