Argonne National Laboratory is pleased to present the latest installment ofArgonne OutLoud, the lab's free public lecture series:

"Invisible Influence: A Bacterial Guide to Your Health"
Featuring Dr. Jack Gilbert, Environmental Microbiologist

Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014
Advanced Photon Source Auditorium (Argonne campus)

6:30-7 p.m.: Reception/Display Session/Optional Audience Sample Submission
7-8 p.m.: Presentation and Q&A

In recent years, scientists have discovered that our bodies teem with microbial life, which outnumber our cells 10 to one. In fact, we have approximately 2-3 pounds of bacteria living on and in our bodies – the same weight as the human brain.

Like the brain and other valuable organs, this microbial organ performs extremely important roles in our health and well-being. There is even evidence that the bacteria that live in our guts can influence our neurological development and behavior.

In this presentation, we will explore this brave new world, examining some examples of how your microbial world influences your health, probing where that microbial world comes from, and highlighting the ways in which your lifestyle, diet and medical treatment can influence your microbiome.

We will provide an overview of case examples, and we will even swab phones and/or shoes of audience members who are interested in having their microbial world sequenced and interpreted.

Come on a journey of discovery and meet your closest neighbors; we think you will be surprised at how much they’ve shaped your life!

We ask that guests not bring children younger than 8-years-old; all guest who are 16 or older must register in advance (Argonne employees included). Register for "Invisible Influence: A Bacterial Guide to Your Health"