colonization by pathogens, reduce inflammation, and even influence brain function.A group of scientists led by Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, calls for more research into possible links between the gut microbiome of minoritized populations and worse health.In an opinion piece in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, they argue that the gut microbiome may respond to and help perpetuate the structural inequities caused by racism and other forms of discrimination.High levels of stress and poor sleep quality as a result of discrimination, for example, may change the gut microbiome in ways that are detrimental to health.