The human microbiome and chronic disease: ten strategic priorities for research and public health

An international group of scientists convened by the US Department of Health and Human Services has outlined ten strategic priorities for microbiome research. The initiative aims to leverage advancements in biomedical science to improve public health outcomes regarding chronic diseases.
Why it matters
This research framework sets the agenda for future medical breakthroughs in understanding how the human microbiome influences long-term health.
Nature Medicine ( 2026 ) Cite this article
The human microbiome has emerged as one of the most consequential frontiers in biomedical science. An international group of leading microbiome scientists, convened by the US Department of Health and Human Services, presents a strategic vision for realizing its potential to transform public health.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access Nature and 54 other Nature Portfolio journals
Get Nature+, our best-value online-access subscription
Receive 12 print issues and online access
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout
Subjects Diseases Medical research Microbiome Influences on Human Health and Disease References Gilbert, J. A. et al. Nat. Med. 31 , 1099–1113 https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-025-03615-9 (2025).
Asnicar, F. et al. Nat. Med. 27 , 321–332 https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-01183-8 (2021).
Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
Wu, G. D. et al. Science 334 , 105–108 https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1208344 (2011).
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in