Is it time for a metagenomic basis of therapeutics?

Science. 2012 Jun 8;336(6086):1253-5. doi: 10.1126/science.1224396. Epub 2012 Jun 6.

Abstract

The trillions of microbes associated with the human body are a key part of a comprehensive view of pharmacology. A mechanistic understanding of how the gut microbiota directly and indirectly affects drug metabolism is beginning to emerge.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacteria / metabolism*
  • Biotransformation
  • Drug Therapy*
  • Gastrointestinal Tract / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Metagenome*
  • Metagenomics*
  • Micronutrients / metabolism
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations / metabolism*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Micronutrients
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations