Final answer:
Commensal bacteria in the gut microbiome are vital to human health, aiding in digestion, nutrient production, and immunity. These beneficial microbes, studied by the Human Microbiome Project, are often considered akin to an organ due to their extensive role in our bodily functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A medical assistant should identify commensal bacteria as having a helpful function in the human body. These micro-organisms provide essential benefits such as protecting us from pathogens, aiding in digestion, producing vital nutrients, and educating our immune systems. The most abundant and extensively studied beneficial micro-organisms are found in the gut microbiome. It is home to a vast number of bacteria that are vital for maintaining human health, to such a degree that it is sometimes referred to as a 'forgotten organ'. The Human Microbiome Project has been instrumental in researching and cataloging these beneficial microbes, emphasizing their importance in our overall health and well-being.