Advancing microbiome methods and bioinformatic approaches for biomarker discovery.

Interest in the microbiome has exploded over the last several years, but current methods for studying the link between different microbes and their functions are lacking. Research is needed to develop and test new techniques and tools to understand microbiome data. However, this requires access to large collections of human samples. The purpose of this study is to collect oral and stool samples for the development of advanced techniques, and to generate new approaches and computer models to understand microbiome data in relation to human health. Participants are 16 years of age or older, completed an online survey, and have provided a saliva and/or stool sample. Samples and data are used for constant development and testing of new techniques and tools. Microbiome data, along with survey data, are used to develop new statistical approaches and computer models. Models will be tested and used to interpret microbiome data. Models will also help identify microbes and functions associated with health. This study will fast-track microbiome research by providing new methods and tools for studying the microbiome.