Atopic Dermatitis and Probiotics & Prebiotics

Microorganisms existing in our bodies form diverse communities and are referred to as microbiota. They collaborate with cells in various parts of the body, playing a crucial role in maintaining optimal function. Popular science books on this topic include "10% Human" and "Let Them Eat Dirt".

Book Introductions

• 10% Human
  Author: Alanna Collen
  Publisher: Sigongsa
  Published: 2016.02.15.
• Let Them Eat Dirt
  Author: B. Brett Finlay, Marie-Claire Arrieta
  Publisher: Sigongsa
  Published: 2017.06.16.

Importance of Microbiota

The phrase "10% Human" refers to the idea that microorganisms outnumber our body's cells by tenfold, covering our bodies and playing a role in influencing our biological functions. It suggests that without these microorganisms, which constitute 90% of our being, the organism 'I' would struggle to maintain vital functions.

Microbiota Research and Health

Research on microbiota has generally focused on gut microbiome studies, and this focus has contributed to the widespread popularity of prebiotics and probiotics products.

Reid, G., Younes, J. A., Van der Mei, H. C., Gloor, G. B., Knight, R., & Busscher, H. J. (2010). Microbiota restoration: natural and supplemented recovery of human microbial communities. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 9(1), 27–38. doi:10.1038/nrmicro2473

Birth Mode and Immunity

Studies indicate differences in microbial community distribution between natural childbirth and C-sections, and suggest that the robustness of the innate immune system may vary accordingly.

Petrova, M. I., van den Broek, M., Balzarini, J., Vanderleyden, J., & Lebeer, S. (2013). Vaginal microbiota and its role in HIV transmission and infection. FEMS Microbiology Reviews, 37(5), 762–792. doi:10.1111/1574-6976.12029

Gut Microbiota and Other Research

There are studies suggesting that the interaction between gut microbiota and estrogen can affect vaginal health, which demonstrates that the gut microbiota can influence other organs.

Baker, J. M., Al-Nakkash, L., & Herbst-Kralovetz, M. M. (2017). Estrogen–gut microbiome axis: Physiological and clinical implications. Maturitas, 103, 45–53. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2017.06.025

Skin and Microorganisms

Studies on microorganisms present on the skin have primarily focused on pathogens, while research on the normal microbiota is limited.

Cogen, A. L., Nizet, V., & Gallo, R. L. (2008). Skin microbiota: a source of disease or defence? British Journal of Dermatology, 158(3), 442–455. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08437.x

Microorganisms associated with skin diseases include Staphylococcus aureus, P. acnes, and Malassezia, among others.

Need for Research

While the influence of gut microbiota on the skin is important, there is a need for studies focusing on the role of skin microbiota in contributing to local skin barrier function. Research in the cosmetics field, such as fermentation technology or topical lactobacillus, is also likely underway.

Conclusion and Summary

1. Without a normal microbiota, our bodily functions cannot operate smoothly.
2. Current microbiota research primarily focuses on gut microorganisms.
3. In skin diseases, there are also studies on the gut-skin axis.
4. Research on the relationship between skin microbiota and skin barrier function also warrants attention.