Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition)
Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition)
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780815345244
Author: Bruce Alberts, Alexander D. Johnson, Julian Lewis, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
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Chapter 23, Problem 1P
Summary Introduction

To examine: Whether the statement “Our adult bodies harbor about 10 times more microbial cells than human cells” is true or false.

Concept introduction: Natural microflora refers to the beneficial microorganisms which are present inside the human body. The natural microflora includes thousands of microbial species which includes bacteria, fungi and protists.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Answer to Problem 1P

Correct answer: The statement is true.

Explanation of Solution

The total number of cells in the human body is 1013. Also the human body shelters 1014 microbes additionally that is 10 times cells than the entire cells of the body combined. These 1014 microbes are known as human microbiota. The human microbiota is found on the skin, lumen of the alimentary canal and lumen of the urinogenital tract. The genome of the microbiota combined exceeds the genome of the human by 100 fold.

Conclusion
Since the human bodies have 10 times more microbial cell than the total number of human cells, the statement is true.

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