RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Diversity of the Human Intestinal Microbial Flora JF Science JO Science FD American Association for the Advancement of Science SP 1635 OP 1638 DO 10.1126/science.1110591 VO 308 IS 5728 A1 Eckburg, Paul B. A1 Bik, Elisabeth M. A1 Bernstein, Charles N. A1 Purdom, Elizabeth A1 Dethlefsen, Les A1 Sargent, Michael A1 Gill, Steven R. A1 Nelson, Karen E. A1 Relman, David A. YR 2005 UL http://science.sciencemag.org/content/308/5728/1635.abstract AB The human endogenous intestinal microflora is an essential “organ” in providing nourishment, regulating epithelial development, and instructing innate immunity; yet, surprisingly, basic features remain poorly described. We examined 13,355 prokaryotic ribosomal RNA gene sequences from multiple colonic mucosal sites and feces of healthy subjects to improve our understanding of gut microbial diversity. A majority of the bacterial sequences corresponded to uncultivated species and novel microorganisms. We discovered significant intersubject variability and differences between stool and mucosa community composition. Characterization of this immensely diverse ecosystem is the first step in elucidating its role in health and disease.