Microbiome Data type

What is the Microbiome?

The Microbiome refers to the entire community of microorganisms-bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and their genes-living in a specific environment. In human health research, the most studied microbiome is the gut microbiome.

Human Microbiome Sites

• Gut (Intestinal): Most diverse; billions of bacteria
• Oral: Bacteria in mouth and throat
• Skin: Varies by body site (dry, moist, oily areas)
• Vaginal: Lactobacillus-dominated in healthy individuals
• Respiratory: Airways and lungs

Why It Matters

The microbiome influences:
- Digestion: Breaks down complex carbohydrates
- Immunity: Trains and regulates immune system
- Metabolism: Produces vitamins, short-chain fatty acids
- Drug Metabolism: Affects medication efficacy
- Mental Health: Gut-brain axis communication

Microbiome Analysis in CMMI-DCC

CMMI-DCC provides:
- Compositional Data: Which organisms are present
- Abundance Profiles: Relative amounts of each taxon
- Diversity Metrics: Alpha and beta diversity
- Functional Predictions: Inferred metabolic capabilities

Factors Affecting Microbiome

• Diet: Major influence on gut microbiome
• Medications: Antibiotics dramatically alter composition
• Age: Changes from infancy through aging
• Geography: Regional and cultural variations
• Disease: Altered in many health conditions

Related Terms

• Metagenomics: Method to study microbiome
• Alpha Diversity: Diversity within a sample
• 16S rRNA: Bacterial identification method
• Sample Type: Source of microbiome sample