Meta-omics in IBD research: applications, challenges and guidelines

Meta-omics (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics and metaproteomics) are rapidly expanding our knowledge of the gut microbiota in health and disease. These technologies are increasingly used in IBD research. Yet, meta-omics data analysis, interpretation, and among-study comparison remain challenging. In this review we discuss the role these techniques are playing in IBD research, highlighting their strengths and limitations. We give guidelines on proper sample collection and preparation methods, and on performing the analyses and interpreting the results, reporting available user-friendly tools and pipelines. ispartof: Journal of Crohns & Colitis vol:10 issue:6 pages:735-746 ispartof: location:England status: published