“Gut microbiota universe” – diversity of functions: a modern view

Abstract

This article is an up-to-date review of the literature describing the functions of the gut microbiota and its interaction with the host. The gut microbiota has an important metabolic function, including energetic. The main metabolites of the healthy microbiota are short-chain fatty acids, which play energetic, anti-inflammatory, tolerogenic and anticarcinogenic roles. Microbial metabolites of tryptophan contribute to the nervous system formation and immunological tolerance. The spectrum of vitamins synthesized by the gut microbiota depends on the host enterotype. The protective function of the gut microbiota includes colonization resistance, strengthening of the intestinal barrier and direct interaction with almost all components of innate and adaptive immunity with the ultimate goal to develop immunological tolerance. Understanding the functional role of the normal gut microbiota can underlie the prevention of many diseases in modern times. Key words: gut microbiota, metabolism, immunity