The Influence of Histo-blood Group Antigen Polymorphism on the Composition of the Microbiota

A member of the study staff will collect a small volume of blood sample through a finger prick and 2-3 milliliters of saliva from you. Using these samples, we will determine your blood type (defined by your expression of specific sugars on your red blood cells) and your expression pattern of these sugars in body secretions (e.g., saliva). You will provide us with a fecal sample collected the day of your appointment. The fecal sample should be collected in a pre-provided collection container and should be collected within 12 hours of drop-off. Using your fecal sample, we will determine the types of bacteria present in your normal gut flora and whether they express the same sugars expressed on your blood cells. Tests will be done only for research purposes and will not be evaluated or used to diagnose or treat any of your medical problems. Sample collection may need to be repeated if required for your medical care in the future.