An ad hoc committee will plan and conduct a public workshop that will provide an overview of the state of the art of microbiome research using animal models. Joshua Lederberg explained that the “microbiome signifies the ecological community of commensal, symbiotic, and pathogenic microorganisms that literally share our body space and have been all but ignored as determinants of health and disease.” Most of the animal-based microbiome-related research depends on murine models to improve our understanding of the physiology, pathology, and relationship to health and disease both at the animal and the translational levels. The workshop would seek to identify and discuss gaps, challenges, and opportunities in this rapidly expanding field. Participants will also discuss husbandry, animal care, and welfare for animals used for such studies. Particular attention will be paid to the care, use, and welfare of the gnotobiotic (germ-free) mice.

The ad hoc committee will develop the workshop agenda, select and invite speakers and discussants, and moderate the discussions. A summary of the presentations and discussions at the workshop will be prepared by a designated rapporteur in accordance with institutional guidelines.