Coordinating and Assisting Research at the SARS-CoV-2/Microbiome Nexus

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, involves more than just the virus.
• The human microbiome's role in disease severity and vaccine efficacy is increasingly recognized.
• Microbiome research offers potential avenues for novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline how the Microbiome Centers Consortium (MCC) can contribute to the COVID-19 pandemic response.
• To identify key areas where microbiome research can address COVID-19 challenges.
• To foster collaboration among microbiome researchers.

Main Methods:

• Survey of Microbiome Centers Consortium (MCC) membership.
• Identification of four strategic areas for MCC involvement in COVID-19 research.
• Proposal for a platform to coordinate research and communication.

Main Results:

• The MCC identified specific needs and opportunities for microbiome research in the context of COVID-19.
• Four key areas were highlighted for leveraging the expertise of microbiome centers.
• A platform is proposed to facilitate clinical and environmental research coordination.

Conclusions:

• The human microbiome is implicated in COVID-19 pathogenesis and immune response.
• Microbiome-directed approaches present therapeutic opportunities for COVID-19.
• The MCC is poised to coordinate efforts and advance understanding of the microbiome-COVID-19 connection.