Explains the concept of the gut-brain axis, and its implications for health and disease. Describes how microbes and their metabolites communicate with the body and the brain. Explains how the microbiome-gut-brain axis influences the development of neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Describes how microbial metabolites regulate immune and metabolic pathways in the body, and how this may impact risk of allergies, autoimmune diseases, obesity and diabetes. Explains how the ecology of the oral microbiome impacts both gut and systemic health; discusses implications for modern-day oral healthcare. Lists potential microbial and gut health disruptors, as well as therapeutic strategies to improve gut and brain health (to become “ecosystem engineers”). Describes ways in which the highly complex gut-brain scientific research has been oversold and misinterpreted by the lay press. Identifies red flags of “pseudoscience” to become a healthy skeptic. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes.

Identifies the human microbiota, including beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and beneficial fiber (prebiotics). Describes the effects of human microbiota with regard to the digestive, immune and mental health conditions. Lists the pro- and anti-inflammatory influences, including those of essential lipids and amino acids. Identifies interventions to address chronic inflammation, pathological appetite, and mental health manifestations of microbiome imbalance. Identifies mental health consequences of gastrointestinal pathobionts as related to various mental disorders. Discusses the role of the immune system with regard to cariogenic bacteria and regeneration of dentin. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes. Describe, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, nursing, and other healthcare professions.

Describes the role tobacco plays in various kinds of cancers. Identifies the impact of estrogens, and viral and bacterial pathogens, on the development of cancer. Describes the lifestyle and dietary changes that can help prevent the development of cancer. Discusses the benefits and drawbacks associated with some of the tools used to screen for cancer. Identifies the role of chemopreventive agents, and how they may be able to curtail the onset of cancer, or its recurrence.