Assignment:
This discussion is an introduction to the amazing world of the human microbiome, the vast array of microbes that live in and on you. As such, this week's discussion will be more interactive and will involve you watching three videos, PRIOR to addressing the discussion questions in forum.
The first video describes the human microbiome in the context of an ecosystem and can be accessed at the following url:
• The Human Ecosystem. Genetic Science Learning Center, 2014.
The fictional microbe Heidi Helicobacter, an inhabitant of college freshman Kristen's gut, narrates the second video, which introduces the diversity of the microbial world and our complicated relationship with it. It can be accessed by clicking on the video below:
• We Are Not Alone: The Unseen World of the Human Microbiome. Created by Joan-Beth Gow for the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, 2017.
The third video discusses the use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a treatment for an illness known as Clostridium difficile infection. It can be accessed by clicking on the video below:
• Fecal Microbiota Transplantation. Mayo Clinic, 2014.
As you watch the videos, consider the following questions to be addressed for forum:
1. The terms germ and microbe are often used interchangeably. What comes to mind when you hear the word germ?
2. Define the term microbiome. List some examples of microbes that comprise the human microbiome. Additionally, list and discuss the two categories discussed in class and the recorded lecture videos into which the human microbiota is divided.
3. Explain, using Video 2's "Heidi Helicobacter's story" as an example, how microbes can be both beneficial and harmful. Provide at least one more example of a benefit obtained from a microbe and an example of harm that can be caused by a microbe.
4. What are some factors that can lead to disruption of a healthy microbiome? How can we avoid such factors?
5. Based upon your viewing of the fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) video, describe what this treatment modality is and why it is utilized? If a patient should have the need for receiving FMT, who should be the donor(s) and why?