Investigating the Effects of Human Factors on Microflora and Ecological Factors: Current Perspectives

Abstract

The intricate relationship between human factors and microflora represents a critical intersection of microbiology, ecology, and human health sciences. Human-associated microbial communities, collectively referred to as the microbiota, function as dynamic ecological systems shaped by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. These factors include lifestyle, diet, environmental exposure, antimicrobial usage, and socio-cultural practices, all of which exert profound influence on microbial diversity, composition, and functionality. Recent advances in metagenomics and systems biology have demonstrated that human microflora is not a static entity but rather a continuously evolving ecosystem influenced by ecological pressures and evolutionary dynamics. This review comprehensively examines the impact of human-related factors on microflora, emphasizing ecological interactions, environmental influences, and the implications for health and disease. Furthermore, it explores current perspectives within the One Health framework, highlighting the interconnectedness of human, environmental, and microbial ecosystems.