Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

The Perception of the Mechanisms and Relevance of Microbiological Commensalism

Chan Ho Park^* Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea
^*Correspondence: Chan Ho Park, Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, South Korea, Email:

Received: 03-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. JBP-23-22472; Editor assigned: 06-Jul-2023, Pre QC No. JBP-23-22472 (PQ); Reviewed: 20-Jul-2023, QC No. JBP-23-22472; Revised: 27-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. JBP-23-22472 (R); Published: 03-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2155-9597.23.14.472

Description

Microbial commensalism is a symbiotic relationship between different microorganisms where one organism benefits while the other is neither damaged nor benefited. In this association, the commensal organism obtains various benefits from its host's environment without causing any detrimental effects. This concept is essential in understanding the intricate interactions that shape microbial communities and their impact on larger ecosystems. In this article, we explore the key concepts of microbial commensalism, its significance in nature and human health, and examples of commensal relationships.

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship where one organism, the commensal, derives benefits from another organism, the host, without causing harm or providing any reciprocal benefits. Commensalism is distinguished by an unidirectional interaction as opposed to mutualism, where both organisms gain from the association. The commensal organism exploits the host's resources or habitat, utilizing it as a niche to thrive. Meanwhile, the host remains largely unaffected by the presence of the commensal.

Microbial commensalism in nature

Microbial commensalism is prevalent in various natural ecosystems, including soil, oceans, and the human body. In soil ecosystems, certain microorganisms colonize the root systems of plants without causing harm to the plants.

In return, these commensals receive nutrients from the plant's root exudates, promoting their growth and contributing to nutrient cycling in the soil. In the marine environment, certain bacteria attach to the surfaces of marine organisms, such as algae and sea creatures. These commensals utilize the nutrients and protection offered by the host without harming them. For example, some marine bacteria attach to the skin of fish, benefiting from the nutrients in the fish's mucus layer.

Microbiota and human commensalism

One of the most significant examples of microbial commensalism is found in the human microbiota. The human body houses trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the human microbiota, which predominantly reside in the gut, skin, mouth, and other mucosal surfaces. These microbes have coevolved with humans over millennia, establishing commensal relationships that significantly impact human health and well-being.

The gut microbiota, for instance, consists of a diverse array of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. These microbes play a significant role in aiding digestion, extracting nutrients from food, and producing essential vitamins. In return, the gut provides a stable environment and a continuous supply of nutrients for the commensal microorganisms. Moreover, the human microbiota also competes with harmful pathogens, preventing their colonization and growth. This colonization resistance is one of the key benefits of commensalism in the human body, as it helps protect against infections and maintains overall health.

Significance in human health

The commensal microorganisms in the human microbiota contribute to various aspects of human health.

• In Immune System Development the presence of commensal bacteria helps train and modulates the immune system during early life. Exposure to these microbes in infancy is significant for the development of a balanced and properly functioning immune system, reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases and allergies.

• In Protection against Pathogens the commensal organisms create a competitive environment that hinders the colonization and growth of harmful pathogens. This protection is essential in preventing infections and maintaining a healthy microbial balance.

• In Nutrient Absorption and Synthesis the gut microbiota aids in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates and the synthesis of certain vitamins, such as B vitamins and vitamin K, which are critical for human health.

• In Gut Barrier Function the commensal bacteria play a role in maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier, preventing the translocation of harmful substances from the gut lumen into the bloodstream.

• In Metabolism and Weight Regulation Studies suggest that the composition of the gut microbiota may influence energy metabolism and weight regulation, potentially impacting the risk of obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Dysbiosis and commensal imbalance

Commensalism in the human body relies on a delicate balance between various microbial species. Disruptions to this balance, known as Dysbiosis, can have adverse effects on human health. Dysbiosis may occur due to factors such as the use of antibiotics, dietary changes, stress, or other environmental influences. It can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, a decline in beneficial commensals, and an increased risk of various diseases, including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and metabolic disorders.

Microbial commensalism is a fundamental concept in understanding the intricate interactions among microorganisms and their hosts in both natural ecosystems and the human body. Commensal relationships play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem stability, nutrient cycling, and human health.

In the human microbiota, commensalism contributes to various physiological processes, including immune system development, pathogen protection, and nutrient absorption. However, Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in commensal populations, can lead to adverse health effects.