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CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Oregon State University Science Pub on June 7 will focus on how insights from the field of restoration ecology, which was designed to heal natural ecosystems, may help health practitioners to manipulate the gut microbiome in ways that improve human health.

The virtual event will feature a talk by Matt Orr, an associate professor of biology at OSU-Cascades. His presentation is titled: “Your inner ecosystem: How to assist your gut microbes for better health.”

An estimated 50% to 90% of the cells in the body are microbes. DNA sequencing technology has helped scientists to track the health effects of gut microbiota. The identity of microbes is associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer. Orr’s talk will be informed by efforts to restore damaged habitats in the environment. He will review the health effects of gut microbes and strategies for improving their performance.

The free Science Pub will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event will be broadcast on YouTube Live. Registration is required and can be completed at https://beav.es/3gs.

Sponsors of Science Pub include the OSU Office of Research, OSU-Cascades in Bend and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Connect Central Oregon, a collaborative program with the OSU-Cascades Innovation Co-Lab, will produce the event with student interns.