Abstract: Disclosed are methods for monitoring the gastrointestinal tract of the human gastrointestinal system. The method includes: 1) grouping microbes into specific operational taxonomic units (OTU); 2) using oligonucleotide probes and PCR primers to detect and quantify specific microbes (bacteria, fungi/yeast, protozoans and parasitic worms) in human fecal material. The inventions also discloses a kit that includes: a DNA isolation step; 2) accumulation of specific operational taxonomic units (OTU); 3) identification and quantifying of sequences internal to the OTU; 4) reporting changes the indigenous population of the human gastrointestinal system.

Abstract: This invention particularly discloses an improved immunoassay method for the sensitive and specific detection of food specific human IgG4 antibodies. A sample diluent comprising a chaotrophic agent is used to reduce the occurrence of nonspecific antibody-dietary antigen interactions. To reduce competition between IgE and IgG4 antibodies for specific epitopes on dietary antigens a heat denaturing step is included to inactivate IgE antibodies. Finally, a signal amplification step is included in the assay to reduce the amount of sample required to perform the assay.