Human Microbiome Project – Core Microbiome Sampling Protocol A

Abstract

This study involves broad determination of the microbiota found in five anatomical sites: the oral cavity, skin, nasal cavity, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. This study will enroll healthy adults from two geographic regions of the US. The participation of healthy individuals will create a baseline for discovery of the core microbiota typically found in various areas of the human body. The information from this initial study can then be used to help assess the changes in the complement of microbiota found on or within diseased individuals. The specimens will be collected from approximately equal numbers of males and females. All subjects will be between the ages of 18 and 40. The age range of subjects has been established to minimize the influence of growth and developmental changes as well as those changes associated with the aging process