Extract

Advances in complex disorders frequently occur when a research endeavor settles at the interface of seemingly disparate disciplines. The conceptual leaps achieved in hybrid fields, such as neuroimmunology or microbial immunophysiology, are testimony to the importance of thinking beyond the traditional confines of any research field. Modern technology has also expanded the scope of questions that can be asked by curious investigators from different backgrounds. This sharing of minds has been well illustrated in the study of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), in which there is increasing acceptance of the importance of gene–environment interactions, and particularly host–flora dialogue in the gut. Exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning such interactions has already provided a glimpse of exciting future therapeutic strategies. Different aspects of the bacterial flora within the gut have been examined in several comprehensive reviews that include reference to earlier work. 1,11 Therefore, in this overview of host–flora interactions, emerging concepts, trends, and controversies will be highlighted.

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