We all need microbial helpers to survive. Most symbiotic bacteria live in our gut and help us digest food or provide us with essential vitamins. They also prevent pathogenic bacteria from colonizing our bodies. If the gut microbiota is disrupted, our immune system is weakened.
At the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, we study the symbiosis between insects and their invisible microbial cohabitants. The symbiotic bacteria of insects can perform various functions: They play an important role in the digestion of plant material, in resistance to plant defense compounds, or in warding off predators. They can also help protect offspring or supplement their diet.
We aim to compare the symbiotic bacteria of humans with the symbiotic partners of insects and learn more about their important role in nature’s struggle for survival.
