Build 'Noah's ark' for beneficial gut microbes, scientists say

Repository would store 'friendly' germs from the intestines of people in remote communities for future medical treatments

Scientists have put forward plans for a microbial "Noah's ark" to preserve beneficial bugs found in the guts of people living in some of the most remote communities on Earth.

The move to save the microbes is driven by concerns that modern lifestyles are wiping out organisms that have colonised human intestines for millennia and are vital for good health.