Metagenomics is the study of genetic material recovered directly from environmental or clinical samples, enabling the analysis of entire microbial communities without the need for culturing. The microbiome refers to the collective genomes and functions of the microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) that inhabit various ecosystems, including the human body. Together, they provide deep insights into microbial diversity, health, and disease.
The integration of metagenomics and microbiome research has revolutionized our understanding of infectious diseases, immunity, and antimicrobial resistance. This session highlights the power of next-generation sequencing technologies and bioinformatics in uncovering the structure and function of microbial communities in various niches—from the gut to soil to hospital environments.
Key discussion themes will include:
- Metagenomic sequencing technologies and computational tools
- Microbiome-host interactions in health and disease
- Role of dysbiosis in infectious diseases and AMR
- Identification of novel pathogens and resistance genes
- Microbiome modulation as a therapeutic strategy (e.g., probiotics, FMT)
- Environmental microbiomes and One Health implications
- Microbiome's role in vaccine and drug response
By connecting researchers, clinicians, and bioinformaticians, this session will foster new interdisciplinary collaborations to harness the microbiome’s potential in diagnostics, therapeutics, and public health.