Microb-AI-ome for society
For Patients & Stakeholders
Microb-AI-ome explores how microbiome research and artificial intelligence may contribute to better colorectal cancer risk assessment while protecting sensitive health data.
Research designed around privacy, trust and impact
The project brings together clinicians, researchers, technology experts and stakeholder representatives to support responsible innovation in colorectal cancer research.
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Health
Improving understanding of colorectal cancer risk
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Microbiome
Exploring the role of gut microorganisms in health
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AI
Using data-driven tools to support research
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Privacy
Keeping sensitive health information protected
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Detecting it early can help improve treatment options and patient outcomes. Microb-AI-ome investigates whether microbiome-informed, data-driven approaches can support more personalised and evidence-based risk assessment in the future.
Understanding the project
What is the microbiome?
The human body hosts billions of microorganisms, including bacteria that naturally live in the digestive system. Together, these microorganisms form the gut microbiome.
Research suggests that the microbiome may be linked to different aspects of health and disease, including colorectal cancer.
How can data help?
By studying patterns in microbiome, clinical and lifestyle information, researchers may identify signals that are associated with colorectal cancer risk.
These insights may contribute to future tools supporting more personalised approaches to screening and care.
How is privacy protected?
Microb-AI-ome uses a privacy-preserving federated approach. This means that sensitive data do not need to be moved into one central database.
Instead, data remain securely stored at the institutions where they were collected, while scientific collaboration can still take place.
Who is involved?
The project brings together universities, hospitals, research organisations, technology partners and experts in ethics, law, dissemination and exploitation.
Patient representatives and stakeholders also contribute to ensuring that the project remains relevant and responsible.
The project does not replace existing screening programmes or clinical advice. Instead, it contributes research that may help improve future understanding of colorectal cancer risk and support the responsible development of new tools for healthcare.
Why this matters
Microb-AI-ome aims to support research and innovation that can benefit patients, healthcare professionals and society.
Better understanding
Improving knowledge of colorectal cancer risk factors.
Personalised approaches
Supporting future evidence-based and tailored healthcare pathways.
Responsible AI
Developing AI tools with attention to ethics, privacy and trust.
Collaboration
Connecting expertise across countries, disciplines and institutions.
A note for patients
Microb-AI-ome is a research project and does not provide individual medical advice. Patients should always follow the recommendations of their healthcare professionals and national screening programmes.
The project’s role is to generate research knowledge that may contribute to future improvements in colorectal cancer risk assessment, screening and patient care.
Project resources
Learn more about Microb-AI-ome
Interested in the project’s work and outcomes? Explore publicly available reports, videos and resources to learn more about Microb-AI-ome’s activities and progress.
Stay informed
As the project progresses, this website will provide updates on project activities, public results, publications, videos and dissemination materials.
