Old Friends Hypothesis: The Concept of Human Superorganism

Divya R¹, Ashok V² and Rajajeyakumar M³*

Received: March 08, 2019;   Published: March 28, 2019

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Abstract

The 21^st century witnessed the innovative research in the field of gut microbiota that led to the initiation of the concept called ‘superorganism’. The concept of superorganism states that the human being is a superorganism hauling billons of microorganisms that embraces fungus, virus, bacteria, protozoa, and archaea [1-3]. The total number of microorganisms are about 1014 which includes 300–3,000 diverse species of microbiota. It is about 10 times the total count of human cells. These microorganisms survive on the exterior of skin, nasal cavity, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract and reproductive system of human beings. In general, the human gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by more than a kilogram of such microorganisms. They are termed as gut microbiota. These microorganisms play a major role in maintenance of homeostasis in the human body [4].

The Concept of ‘Superorganism| Genetic Influence of Microbiota| Embryonic Development| Immune System| Role of Gut Microbiota in Metabolism| Respiratory Tract| Neuroendocrine System| Skin| Reproductive System| The “Old Friends” Hypothesis| Conclusion| References|