Although the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the focus of research for scientists worldwide, major breakthroughs in gut microbiome science have been made in 2020. In this last post of the year, we bring you articles from our blog that cover the major advances in the gut microbiome in 2020, from bench to bedside.

The metabolic activity of immune cells is enhanced after a viral infection, such as the one driven by COVID-19. Dietary approaches that support a healthy gut microbiome can benefit the immune system and ensure a good nutritional status that would help the host deal with pathogens.

COVID-19 has led to renewed interest in how to support immunity and the role of food in ensuring the immune system is ready to react. Taking care of your immune system is not only important during a pandemic, but also for every stage of life (Part 2).

Gut microbiota, with its close links to metabolism and the immune system, could potentially be a factor that lies at the core of good health. This means it can be positioned at the heart of the processes that influence the risk of contracting different diseases.

A new study has found that laboratory mice that are transplanted with the gut microbiota of wild mice are less likely to die from a flu virus infection or develop colorectal cancer than laboratory mice with their own gut microbiota.