Homo sapiens gut Metagenome. human gut metagenome

To optimise fecal sampling and analysis yielding reproducible microbiome data, and gain further insight into sources of its variation, we compared four different collection conditions and 16S rRNA gene sequencing protocols in two research centers in Australia and the USA. Variation in gut microbiome composition and diversity was dominated by differences between individuals. Minor differences in the abundance of taxa were found between collection-processing methods and day of collection. Larger differences were evident between the two centers. Collection with storage and transport at 4 degrees C within 24 h is adequate for 16S rRNA analysis of the gut microbiome. However, variation between sequencing centers suggests that cohort samples should be sequenced by the same method in one center. These findings are particularly relevant as microbiome studies shift towards larger population-based and multi-center studies.