Human Microbiome Research and Social Fabric, Project

Scientific studies using new technology and advanced systems of statistical modeling are rapidly improving our understanding of the human microbiome. This new field of biomedical research promises to launch us into a new age of personalized medicine that encompasses pharmacogenomics and personalized nutrition. It may also become a public health tool that will benefit the population at large by tracking the transformation and spread of microorganisms. Learning more about the microbiome may also be important for how we conceive and address the ethics of medicine and biomedical research. The goals of this project were, therefore, to identify the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) raised by human microbiome research, so as to provide insight and guidance for scientists engaged in the work and members of the society who will be asked to cooperate in studies and live with the consequences. Although we are just starting to understand the human microbiome, it is important to think...