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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
High-throughput diversity and functionality analysis of the gastrointestinal tract microbiota
E G Zoetendal1, M Rajilic-Stojanovic, W M de Vos
1Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703 HB Wageningen, The Netherlands. erwin.zoetendal@wur.nl
The human gut microbiota is crucial for health. New high-throughput technologies like phylogenetic microarrays and metagenomics are essential for understanding its complex diversity and function.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Human Health
Background:
- The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract microbiota significantly impacts host health.
- Small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA)-based technologies have been key in characterizing GI microbiota diversity.
- GI tract microbial communities are host- and location-specific, complicating health-microbiota links.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in high-throughput technologies for studying GI microbiota.
- To highlight the application of phylogenetic microarrays and metagenomics in GI microbiota research.
Main Methods:
- Focus on phylogenetic microarrays utilizing SSU rRNA sequences.
- Exploration of metagenomics approaches with rapid sequencing technologies.
Main Results:
- SSU rRNA technologies provide a phylogenetic framework for uncultured GI microbes.
- These methods offer insights into host and environmental influences on microbiota structure.
- Advancements enable deeper understanding of GI tract microbial community dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Novel high-throughput technologies are crucial for studying GI microbiota diversity and functionality.
- Phylogenetic microarrays and metagenomics are powerful tools for unraveling GI microbiota complexity.
Related Concept Videos
Microbiota of the Large Intestine
Functions of the Gut Microbiota
Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Methods to Assess Microbial Communities
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota
Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine

