Matters Microbial #35: C. difficile: From bench to bedside and back again with Vincent Young

[@MyfynwyMyfynwy]

My PhD led me to two conclusions. The first was that statistics were of limited use when studying a gut parasite (with its own genetics), in a host (with its own genetics and gender), in a gut with its own biome, in a gut environment that varied daily according to host hormones, diet, environment etc.., and the dominance hierachy of cage mates. The second conclusion was that it was important to really focus in depth on a specific organism and not assume broad generalisations. Forty years ago, I was barely aware of chaos theory and was obviously out of step with the mainstream who wanted significance levels for everything. This conversation was a joy. Thank you.

[@JillKnapp]

Another great episode. I've always been interested in those moments of kindness (and serendipity?) that set someone's life in a new trajectory. What if Victor hadn't knocked on Dr. Tompkins' door? So, so cool. 🙂

[@a2binny9]

Yes--I was so fortunate to have that opportunity to see if Lucy would answer the door on a Friday...

[@josedelnegro46]

Emergent Properties I love the drama. Every week there are new microbial heros and new microbial villains on stage fully engaged on the stage of life. "Why does C.Difficil have these toxians...that might portend problems...". Beautiful ❤

[@Rene-uz3eb]

Bunch of papers on correlation of c difficile colonization and lack of butyrate "Higher average daily dietary fiber (total, soluble, and insoluble) appears to be associated with lower odds of gut colonization with C. difficile."

[@traianliviudanciu8665]

IgA secretory can protect intestinal tract, even against some toxic antigen