Viral Microbiota

This page serves as a redirect and cross-reference point for the comprehensive virome concept page, which covers the gut virome, bacteriophage-bacteria interactions, phage therapy, and virome-disease associations in detail.

The term viral microbiota emphasizes that viruses — particularly bacteriophages — are integral members of the gut microbial community, not merely parasites or incidental passengers. The gut virome is dominated (~90%) by bacteriophages that shape bacterial community composition through selective lysis, horizontal gene transfer, and modulation of bacterial fitness.

For full coverage including disease-specific virome signatures, phage-mediated dysbiosis, and therapeutic applications, see virome.

Key Cross-References

  • virome — comprehensive concept page (18 sources)
  • colorectal cancer — CRC virome alterations and network connectivity
  • schizophrenia — virome classifier AUC 93.2%, outperforming bacterial models
  • necrotizing enterocolitis — virome convergence 10 days before NEC onset
  • long covid — reduced phage diversity limits natural pathobiont predation
  • obesity — bacteriophage associations with metabolic syndrome