"A microbiome is the totality of microbes, their genetic elements (genomes), and environmental interactions in a particular environment. The term "microbiome" was coined by the Nobel Prize laureate Joshua Lederberg, who argued that microorganisms inhabiting the human body should be included as part of the human genome, because of their influence on human physiology. The human body contains over 10 times more microbial cells than human cells.
Microbiomes are being characterized in many other environments as well, including soil, seawater and freshwater systems.
A recent article in the NY Times, “In Good Health? Thank Your 100 Trillion Bacteria” by Gina Kolata, is a great introduction to the Human Microbiome Project and the recently reported initial findings. This important field will impact on all interested in health and disease.
Here is an informative YouTube site about The NIH Human Microbiome Project (< 3 minutes).
On June 19, the NY Times had another article onthis subject: "Tending the Body's Microbial Garden." which is also worth reading. These concepts have important implications for healthand disease.