The billions that bug us: A genomic view of humans and their microbes
Monday, April 26, 2010 - 19:50
in Biology & Nature
The human species is dependent for its survival on the billions of microorganisms that inhabit multiple environmental niches within and on the human body. While microbes are commonly associated with diseases and infections, they are also vital in essential, beneficial roles such as digestion, where they help synthesize vitamins and ferment complex indigestible carbohydrates.