Spotlight: NIST Hosts Training Course on Sequencing of Bacterial Genomes Using Both Single Bacterial Strains and Stool Samples

NIST recently hosted a training course for graduate students and early-career researchers at its lab in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The participants learned about sequencing of bacterial genomes using both single bacterial strains and stool samples, which are representative of the microbes in the human gut microbiomes.

The human gut microbiome is a rich ecosystem of microorganisms and their byproducts that reside within the human gastrointestinal tract. Over the last decade, scientists have linked bacteria in our gut to numerous medical conditions. Researchers are looking into new drugs that could target the microbiome and possibly treat many medical conditions. NIST recently developed RM 8048, a human fecal reference material to support studies of the human microbiome.

Sequencing is a cornerstone of modern microbiology and medicine. This course offered valuable hands-on experience with this technology and, importantly, introduced participants to NIST standards and measurement assurance techniques. Training opportunities like this help researchers and physicians remain at the forefront of innovation in human health.