The accelerating interest in the gastrointestinal microbiome

Once the cause and eff ects are determined, we can start to understand the possibilities for clinical application of the fi ndings.Research into the GI microbiome and its eff ects on the rest of the body is a rapidly developing fi eld, highlighting the benefi ts of a collaborative One Health approach to propel the veterinary fi eld forward along with human medicine.This was emphasised by a fascinating discussion at BVA Live earlier this year exploring the infl uence of the gut microbiome on animal behaviour and wellbeing that included professionals from both the veterinary and human health fi elds.This supplement has been prepared independently by the Vet Record editorial team and is designed to provide an overview of current research into the microbiome and biotics as well as discussing the use of biotics in GI disease in companion animals.We hope that it starts conversations and sparks an interest in this exciting, dynamic fi eld of research and opens our minds to the current and future clinical applications of modifying the GI microbiome.