Ecology and Medicine Converge at the Microbiome-Host Interface.

The human body is home to a dense and diverse population of bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotes, collectively termed the microbiome. Research on host-microbiome interactions continuously demonstrates the importance of this microbial community to human physiology and its involvement in a myriad of diseases. This, in turn, sparks great interest in developing means for beneficially modulating the microbiome, such as fecal microbiome transplantation and probiotics.

Reconciling protective and pathogenic roles of the NLRP3 inflammasome in leishmaniasis.

Leishmaniasis is a global health problem that affects more than 2 billion people worldwide. Recent advances in research have demonstrated critical roles for cytoplasmic sensors and inflammasomes during Leishmania spp. infection and pathogenesis.

GP perspectives of irritable bowel syndrome--an accepted illness, but management deviates from guidelines: a qualitative study.

Background: The estimated prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is 10%. Up to one third of patients develop chronic symptoms, which impact on everyday functioning and psychological wellbeing. Guidelines suggest an increased role for primary care in the management of patients with IBS, and referral for psychological interventions.