The human microbiome consists of thousands of viral and
microbial species which inhabit the human body and have co-
evolved with us to protect against pathogens, regulate organ
function and supply nutrients and other factors essential for
health. When these members fall out of balance, it can lead to
disease. Participants will discuss the various roles that the
microbiome and its specific members play in the initiation and
persistence of diseases. Lita Proctor, National Human Genome
Research Inst/NIH Forest Rohwer, San Diego State University
Karen Guillemin, University of Oregon