Human Microbiome Engineering: The Future and Beyond

• Main Author: Arunava Kali
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 2015-09-01
• Series: Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research
• Subjects: genetic engineering; microbiome engineering; microbial flora
• Online Access: https://jcdr.net/articles/PDF/6570/14946_CE(RA1)_F(T)_PF1(VSUAK)_PFA(AK)_PF2(PAG).pdf

Microbial flora of skin and mucosal surface are vital component of human biology. Current research indicates that this microbial constellation, rather than being inert commensals, has greater implications in health and disease. They play essential role in metabolism, immunity, inflammation, neuro-endocrine regulation and even moderate host response to cancer. Genetic engineering was a major breakthrough in medical research in 1970's and it opened up newer dimensions in vaccinology, large-scale synthesis of bio-molecule and drug development. Engineering human microbiome is a novel concept. Recombinant DNA technology can be employed to modify the genome of critical components of resident microflora to achieve unprecedented goals.