History of medicine: Origin of the term microbiome and why it matters

Contemporary science writing suffers from errors in quotations and misattributions. Given the importance of the microbiome to virtually every branch of science and medicine, its early origins and historical references are vital. Regardless of technological applications – culture technique or next-generation metagenomics – accurate referencing is essential to the scientific pursuit of truth. Despite claims and inferences to the contrary, the rich history of the study of microbiota and the microbiome didn’t begin in 2001; many lessons can be learned by closely examining the history of the gut-brain-microbiota connection, including the undervalued role of early pioneers in this field.