Schedule Overview
Keynote: The Hidden Role of Microbes in Animal Health and Nutrition
Presentation Type
Presentation
Abstract / Artist's Statement
When most people think of bacteria and fungi—if they think of them at all—they probably think of “germs, disease, and rot.” This is understandable, as bacterial and viral epidemics have killed more people over the course of human history than all wars combined. But it is also quite wrong: animals cannot function normally without sustained, intimate interactions with microbes. In my talk, I will highlight a few interesting examples of microbe-animal interactions, drawing from recent studies in humans and insects. Finally, I will outline why, when viewed from a long-term evolutionary perspective, we should not be surprised that animals not only benefit, but require interactions with microbes to survive.
Keynote: The Hidden Role of Microbes in Animal Health and Nutrition
UC Theater
When most people think of bacteria and fungi—if they think of them at all—they probably think of “germs, disease, and rot.” This is understandable, as bacterial and viral epidemics have killed more people over the course of human history than all wars combined. But it is also quite wrong: animals cannot function normally without sustained, intimate interactions with microbes. In my talk, I will highlight a few interesting examples of microbe-animal interactions, drawing from recent studies in humans and insects. Finally, I will outline why, when viewed from a long-term evolutionary perspective, we should not be surprised that animals not only benefit, but require interactions with microbes to survive.