Rhythmic Bacteria as Biomarkers for Circadian-Related Diseases

The preprint operates within the dominant paradigm of human microbiome research, which acknowledges the crucial role of the gut microbiota in health and disease. It also accepts the established paradigm of circadian rhythms influencing physiological processes.

This preprint investigates the potential link between rhythmic bacteria in the gut and circadian-related diseases. It sits comfortably within the 'Normal Science' stage, as it operates within the existing paradigms of microbiome research and circadian biology. The study explores specific predictions (differential abundance of rhythmic bacteria in disease) derived from these paradigms. While it identifies some interesting trends, like the altered abundance of *Roseburia faecis* in circadian-related diseases, it doesn't present findings radical enough to challenge or shift the existing paradigms. The study acknowledges its limitations, particularly the small number of datasets used to identify rhythmic bacteria, suggesting further research is needed to solidify the observed associations. The investigation of *R. faecis* as a potential biomarker represents a puzzle-solving activity within normal science, aiming to refine and extend current understanding rather than overturn it.