Revealing the diversity of commensal corynebacteria from a single human skin site

This study uncovers the hidden diversity of <i>Corynebacterium</i>, an important yet often overlooked group of bacteria inhabiting human skin. Focusing on the underarm and using advanced sequencing techniques, we identified over 200 complete bacterial genomes. This collection includes species not previously known to reside on the skin, as well as two entirely new species, highlighting how little is currently known about this cutaneous genus. Most of these bacteria were isolated from a single individual, underscoring the vast microbial diversity that can exist within one person. By closely examining the corynebacterial community at a single site, we begin to uncover the complex relationships within a true microbial ecosystem. These findings deepen our understanding of the skin microbiome and provide a valuable resource for future research into how these microbes affect skin health, hygiene, and disease.