Cell Host and Microbe refers to the study of interactions between host cells and microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and the molecular dialogue that determines whether those relationships are beneficial, neutral, or harmful. This field examines how microbes colonize, communicate with, …
Cell Host and Microbe refers to the study of interactions between host cells and microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and the molecular dialogue that determines whether those relationships are beneficial, neutral, or harmful. This field examines how microbes colonize, communicate with, and influence host tissues, and how host cells sense and respond through immune signaling, barrier function, and metabolic changes. It matters because host-microbe interactions shape health and disease across infection, inflammation, immunity, and nutrition. A prominent area is the gut, where commensal and probiotic bacteria such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria contact the intestinal epithelium, modulate tight junctions, support mucin production, and influence cytokine and chemokine signaling, thereby affecting inflammation and immune balance. Key aspects include the mechanisms by which beneficial microbes confer health benefits, the development of cellular and molecular biomarkers for these effects, and the role of the microbiome in chronic inflammatory conditions. Research in this area links microbiology, immunology, and cell biology. Related open-access research on probiotic mechanisms and host-microbe signaling is available through this collection.
1 peer-reviewed article, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.