Read the summary and the most important questions on L1: Introduction host-microbe interactions | Michiel Kleerebezem

• 1 Human intestinal tract

• 1.1 Tract components

• Why is there a low microbial load in the small intestine?

  Due to the high transit rate of food.

• What are the main functions of the small intestine?

  - Primary digestion of food consituents.
  - Major absorption of dietary components: carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

• What is the main function of the colon?

  - Microbial conversion of undigested food in the lumen.
  - Non-digestable carbohydrates and proteins; fermentation products.

• 1.2 Multivariate system

• What are the three components in the multivariate intertwined system?

  Diet:composition and amount; 
  Host: genetics;
  Microbiota: composition

• Why are studies on the host metabolism so hard to do?

  Interventions have multiple consequences: either on the host, the diet or the microbiota.

• How can this problem of multiple variables be solved?  

  Using model systems will reduce the variables present in the system.

• 1.3 The intestinal dilemma

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• How can you realize maximal absortpive capacity (nutrient intake)?

  An open intestinal structure: little mucus (only for lubrication) and easy passage through the epithelium.

• How do you maintain an optimal barrier function to prevent bacterial translocation and damage?

  A closed intestinal structure to keep the body sterile: large mucus layer, controlled passage of nutrients through epithelium.

• What is the intestinal dilemma?

  Balancing between the uptake of nutrients, whilst providing a barrier against microbes.

• 2 Absorptive and barrier function

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• What are contributors of the (absorptive &) barrier function in the crypts? 

  Stem-cells: epithelium renewal;
  Paneth cells: granules with anti-microbial compounds;
  Innate immunity: defensins, lysozym etc.