A Repository to Study Host-Microbiome Interactions in Health and Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the human microbiome, which includes bacteria and other microorganisms living on and inside the body, to understand its role in health and disease. This observational study aims to collect various microbiome samples to create a repository that will support future research. The samples will help validate tests, improve sample handling techniques, and identify targets for future clinical trials related to microbiome-associated diseases. Participants in this study may be asked to provide different types of biological samples including stool, urine, saliva, vaginal fluid, breast milk, and cells from areas like the cheek, nose, mouth, skin, rectum, or vagina. Some samples can be collected at home and mailed to researchers. Blood samples may be collected by needle or heelfinger prick for young children. Tissue samples from the intestine or skin may be collected if participants are undergoing endoscopy, colonoscopy, or biopsy for other reasons. During the study, participants will complete a questionnaire about their medical history and diet. Researchers will collect and store biological specimens for assay validation and research use. The study will assess the hosts microbiome response over time. Participants may be seen at the NIH clinic if over 3 years old. The study will continue until 2032, with ongoing sample collection and data gathering throughout the period.

A Repository to Study Host-Microbiome Interactions in Health and Disease