2) Host microbiome symbiosis
The establishment of extensive interactions between microorganisms and hosts, such as plants, insects, animals, and humans, has been a result of millions of years of evolution since bacterial land colonization. These interactions, known as bacterial symbiosis, play a crucial role in shaping the diversity and functioning of ecosystems. Factors influencing bacterial symbiosis, including host-bacteria coevolution, dietary shifts, social transitions, and environmental changes, are complex and require further exploration. Understanding bacterial symbiosis is of great importance as it offers insights into fundamental biological processes and has implications for various fields, including ecology, agriculture, and human health.
Studying bacterial symbiosis allows us to unravel the intricate relationships between hosts and microorganisms and provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying these interactions. By investigating the coevolutionary dynamics between hosts and bacteria, we can gain insights into the selective pressures that have shaped these relationships over time. Host-bacteria coevolution influences the genetic and phenotypic adaptations of both parties, enabling them to coexist and thrive. Furthermore, studying bacterial symbiosis can shed light on the mechanisms by which microorganisms contribute to host fitness, nutrient acquisition, and defense against pathogens.
Dietary shifts and social transitions are other critical factors that influence bacterial symbiosis. Changes in diet can have profound effects on the composition and function of the gut microbiota in humans and other animals. Understanding how dietary shifts shape the symbiotic relationships between hosts and bacteria can provide valuable insights into the links between nutrition, health, and disease. Additionally, social transitions, such as the formation of social groups or the transition from solitary to communal living, can significantly impact microbial communities and their interactions with hosts. Exploring the role of bacterial symbiosis in social organisms can contribute to our understanding of social behavior, communication, and disease transmission within populations.
Fudan University, with its expertise in population genetics, human pangenome and gut microbiome studies, is uniquely positioned to contribute to the study of bacterial symbiosis. Population genetics provides a framework for understanding the genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of both hosts and bacteria within populations. By applying related genetic approaches, Fudan University can investigate the genetic basis of host-microbe interactions, the impact of genetic variation on microbial communities, and the role of host genetic factors in shaping bacterial symbiosis.
