Gastrointestinal microbiota-mediated control of enteric pathogens

The gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms residing within the mammalian gastrointestinal tract. The GI microbiota is vital to the development of the host immune system and plays a crucial role in human health and disease. The composition of the GI microbiota differs immensely among individuals yet specific shifts in composition and diversity have been linked to inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, atopy, and susceptibility to infection. In this review, we describe the GI microbiota and its role in enteric diseases caused by pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Clostridium difficile. We discuss the central role of the GI microbiota in protective immunity, resistance to enteric pathogens, and resolution of enteric colitis.