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  • The human microbiome: Me, myself, us | The Economist

The human microbiome: Me, myself, us | The Economist

Extraordinarily interesting article in the Economist on the effects of micro-organisms in the gut and elsewhere on the human body. Particularly intriguing in regards to: obesity, autism, genetic disorders. Almost has the ring of too good to be true (stem cells anyone?), but still, plausible..and testable.

The link with diabetes was noticed in morbidly obese people who had opted for a procedure known as Roux-en-Y, which short-circuits the small intestine and thus reduces the amount of food the body can absorb. Such people are almost always diabetic. As a treatment for obesity, Roux-en-Y is effective. As a treatment for diabetes, it is extraordinary. In 80% of cases the condition vanishes within days.

Perhaps the most striking claim, however, for links between the microbiome and human health has to do with the brain. It has been known for a long time that people with autism generally have intestinal problems as well, and that these are often coupled with abnormal microbiomes. In particular, their guts are rich in species of Clostridia. This may be crucial to their condition.

The Economist, 8/18/12
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