We define microbial heritage as attributes or features of the microbes - a wide variety of tiny creatures such as archaea, bacteria, eukaryotes, fungi, and viruses - that inhabit the human body. We are particularly interested in the gut microbiomes of traditional populations, how they are influenced by urbanization, and whether urbanization associated changes in the gut microbiota affects human health. We have several outstanding projects investigating traditional human gut microbiomes, that are supported by grants from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Current Research Project
- Himalayan Microbiomes
Understanding the factors influencing the microbial diversity in culturally distinct human populations in Nepal and India.