Immunosuppression drugs, like antibiotics and certain foods, can change the microbiome (the natural micro-organisms inside the body) of the individual taking the drug. We want to study what impact these changes to the microbiome have on the individual. We are specifically interested in how these changes to the microbiome may change the metabolism (breakdown) and action of medications. We already know that individual genetics impact the metabolism, absorption, and toxicities of some medications. We suspect the microbiome will have similar impacts on medications.With a better understanding of how individual microbiome impacts immunosuppressant medications used to help transplant recipients from rejecting their new organs, we can more accurately prescribe and dose these medications to better treat and care for our transplant patients and their organs.~We expect that you will be in this research study for up to 12 years. There will be periods of time that require your active participation (visits) and periods of time that will be more passive participation (allowing our study staff to follow-up your medical records for outcomes).
The purpose of this research is to study immunosuppression drugs, certain foods, and how they can change the microbiome (the natural microorganisms inside the body) of the individual taking the immunosuppressive medications. We want to study how the microbiome affects how your body process the transplant medication.