uBiome

uBiome provides direct access to cutting edge scientific research to the public to let people understand their health and contribute to scientific progress. uBiome provides two primary services. The new SmartGut test, the world’s first sequencing-based clinical microbiome test, delivers specific information to doctors and their patients about gut taxa that are critical to gut health. uBiome Explorer kits provide the public with direct access to state-of-the-art tools to learn more about their microbiome and enable citizen scientists across the world to conduct their own experiments. Our mission is to explore important research questions about the microbiome and to develop accurate and reliable clinical tests based on the microbiome. What’s the human microbiome? We are all covered in trillions of microbes. These microorganisms live in and on us and are collectively called the microbiome. Like the rainforest, the healthy human microbiome is a balanced ecosystem. The correct balance of microbes keeps potential pathogens in check and regulates our immune system. Microbes also perform essential functions such as digesting food and synthesizing vitamins. Studies have also linked the microbiome to human mood and behavior, as well as many gut disorders, eczema, and chronic sinusitis. What is citizen science? Citizen science is scientific research conducted by nonprofessional scientists, often by crowdsourcing. Traditionally, citizen scientists contributed to scientific endeavors by collecting and analyzing data. uBiome takes citizen science to the next level by providing access to cutting edge research tools that directly address the latest questions in biomedical research. In addition, citizen science projects encourage engagement in scientific research and public understanding of science.