Our Microbiome: The Invisible World Within Us
By Kardokh Kaka Bra, COL_RES MSCA PhD student at APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork.
From the sprawling urban jungles to the tranquil embrace of untouched wilderness, our surroundings captivate our senses daily. Yet, amidst this vast expanse of the world outside, we often overlook an even more mesmerising realm within us. This concealed universe, teeming with life, is our microbiome. Comparable to the vast galaxies in its complexity and grandeur, this microbial universe has nuances, layers, and intricacies that rival the stars. With unyielding passion, I have embarked on a quest to unravel the many enigmas it holds.
My foray into the realm of scientific research wasn't something I anticipated from the outset. After attaining my undergraduate degree in pharmacy, my innate curiosity steered me towards the convergence of medicine and technology, which found its niche in biomedical engineering. As I ventured further into this discipline, I was introduced to the intricate world of computational biology – a perfect amalgamation of biology and technology, like a symphony of code and life. The allure of understanding life at its most fundamental levels became irresistible. Consequently, I was magnetically drawn to a PhD program, an opportunity not just to study but to delve deep into the intricate dance of microbial life, unravelling the mysteries of the microbiome, and deciphering the hidden codes of colonisation resistance.
The Microbiome, Colonisation Resistance, & Computational Exploration
The human microbiome is not just a mere collection of microorganisms living within us; it's an intricate and delicately balanced ecosystem. Within the vast terrain of our bodies, especially in regions like our gut, resides a bustling metropolis of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Just as a city comprises different districts and communities, our microbiome consists of various microorganisms, each contributing uniquely to our health and well-being.
These microorganisms are not just passive residents. They actively participate in digesting our food, synthesizing essential vitamins, and even producing substances that communicate with our brain, influencing our moods and mental health. They aren't just co-existing with us; they are in many ways an extension of ourselves.
Colonisation resistance is a fascinating phenomenon that showcases the protective prowess of our microbiome. It acts as the city's police force, maintaining law and order. When harmful pathogens attempt to invade our body, the microbiome's diverse community springs into action, preventing these invaders from gaining a foothold. They ensure that these harmful intruders don't get a chance to settle, multiply, and disrupt the harmonious balance. However, if this defence mechanism weakens or gets overwhelmed, it can result in a domino effect leading to a range of diseases and health challenges.
The study of the microbiome is akin to exploring a dense, uncharted rainforest. Despite its proximity to us, there are vast swathes of it that remain mysterious. This is where modern computational tools come into play. Our current understanding of the microbiome is indeed in its early stages, but with advances in bioinformatics and computational biology, we are diving deeper into this microbial universe.
In my work with the COL_RES project, I utilize state-of-the-art computational tools to sift through vast amounts of data. These tools help segregate and classify the millions of microorganisms, enabling us to understand the fine differences between a healthy and a diseased microbiome. Machine learning, an offshoot of artificial intelligence, is particularly potent in this field. By analysing patterns in vast datasets, I'm developing predictive models that can forecast the potential onset of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease merely based on the shifts in microbial populations.
In essence, the exploration of the microbiome, bolstered by cutting-edge computational analysis, promises to unlock secrets that can revolutionize our understanding of health, disease, and our very nature as human beings.
Diving Deeper: The Crucial Role of Our Microbial Companions
To say that the study of our microbiome is vital is somewhat of an understatement. With every passing research paper and study, the layers of intricacies surrounding our microscopic companions become clearer. As we continue to delve deeper into these microbial ecosystems, we're not just expanding our knowledge base; we are opening doors to predict, diagnose, and treat numerous gastrointestinal disorders that once baffled the medical community.
But the significance of understanding our microbiome extends far beyond immediate medical interventions. It has the potential to reshape the very paradigms of health. From determining optimal dietary habits that nurture our gut flora to comprehending the profound connections between our gut and our brain, the possibilities are boundless. It isn't merely about rectifying existing issues like Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome. It's about tapping into this rich microbial resource, allowing us to design comprehensive health strategies tailored for the future.
Indeed, the journey of microbiome research is not without its challenges. The dynamic, ever-shifting nature of these microbial communities poses both a challenge and a wonder. Their capacity to adapt, evolve, and influence is a testament to the vastness of what's yet to be discovered. There are moments, as researchers, when we're overwhelmed by the enormity of what lies ahead. But every scientific endeavour is grounded in curiosity and determination. Echoing the words of the legendary scientist Marie Curie, it's not about reflecting on our achievements, but about being spurred on by the vast expanse of the uncharted. Every discovery, every breakthrough, fuels our passion and reminds us of our purpose: to demystify the enigmatic, paving the path for advancements that can transform lives.
So, I invite you, dear reader, to accompany me on this remarkable expedition. As we journey deeper into the maze of our microbial universe, we're not just understanding the trillions of organisms that call us home; we're gaining insights into the essence of what it means to be human. After all, the quest to understand our very being commences with a close look at these minuscule, yet mighty, dwellers within us.
Kardokh Kaka Bra
Kardokh Kaka Bra is a Marie Sklodowska-Curie PhD fellow on the COL_RES project based at the Claesson lab in APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork. His work melds the realms of computational biology and bioinformatics, leveraging advanced techniques like Deep Learning and Kernel Machines. These tools help him unravel the intricate web of factors that best determine colonisation resistance by examining a myriad of ‘omics’ datasets. Before diving into this research, Kardokh honed his expertise with two master's degrees; one in biomedical technology from Ilmenau University of Technology in Germany and another from the University of Technology Malaysia, where he specialized in medical engineering. There, he delved into predictive modelling for cardiovascular diseases. Beyond his current focus, Kardokh's broader passions encompass multi-omics integration, taxonomic classification, and crafting innovative tools for microbiome analysis.
You can follow Kardokh and his team on twitter: