Implications of the human microbiome project for epidemiology

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Epidemiology
• Population health

Background:

• The human microbiota comprises microorganisms residing in and on the body.
• Microbiota composition influences individual health outcomes and variability.
• It serves as a potential source for novel biomarkers and diagnostic indicators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of the human microbiota as a resource for understanding health.
• To emphasize the potential of microbiota research in identifying biomarkers for environmental exposures and disease.
• To advocate for the integration of microbiota assessments into epidemiologic studies.

Main Methods:

• Leveraging low-cost, high-throughput techniques for microbiota assessments.
• Analyzing data from recent Human Microbiome Consortium publications and related studies.
• Applying epidemiological expertise to translate microbiome findings.

Main Results:

• Microbiota research presents a significant opportunity for advancing population health.
• High-throughput sequencing enables straightforward microbiota analysis in large studies.
• The field is rapidly expanding with increased interest and media attention.

Conclusions:

• The human microbiota is a valuable resource for explaining health variability.
• Epidemiologists are crucial for translating microbiome research into actionable public health insights.
• Integrating microbiota studies into epidemiology is timely and essential for population health advancements.