The project investigates the evolution of gut microbiomes across a prehistoric timeline, focusing on how historical transitions, such as changes in subsistence strategies, have influenced microbiome structure and function. The study integrates newly generated data from ancient sediment samples of fisher-hunter-gatherers dating back approximately 5,000 years, ancient fecal samples from the medieval era, and ancient microbiome data from previously published studies. Additionally, modern gut microbiome samples from the Global Microbiome Conservancy (GMbC) will be incorporated to profile microbial taxa and functions

Approach

By bridging ancient and modern microbiome datasets, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic relationship between human evolution and gut microbial diversity.

Analysis & Validation

The findings will illuminate how historical lifestyle changes have shaped gut microbiome composition and functionality over time, offering valuable insights into the co-evolution of humans and their microbial communities.