Define the Human Metagenome

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Examlex · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The human metagenome is composed of the human genome and the genomes of all the organisms in human gut microbiota. This is important because there are organisms present in our microbiota that we depend on to carry out reactions we cannot perform. Humans obtain some amino acids and vitamins from gut microorganisms. As such, to get a more complete picture of all the metabolic activities present in a human, the metagenome must be considered. Also, genes could be found in gut microbes that code for proteins that utilize the N-acetyl glucosamine, sialic acid and fucose found in breast milk (and not metabolized by humans). Studies with Bacteroides and Ruminococcus sp. serve as examples. Examples may vary but can include studies examining the genes involved in digesting a variety of xyloglucan from sources such as tomatoes versus lettuce.

Define the Human Metagenome

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