In the following video, Fool contributor Maxx Chatsko discusses the recent investment by Johnson & Johnson (JNJ 0.87%) into a tiny start-up called Second Genome. Although terms of the deal were not disclosed, it is not believed to have been very significant. In monetary terms, anyway. Second Genome is actively pursuing links between the bacteria living in your gut -- the microbiome -- and autoimmune diseases such as ulcerative colitis. There is growing evidence suggesting the microbiome plays a big role in our overall health, so Big Pharma would be well served to follow Johnson & Johnson's lead.
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Johnson & Johnson's Gut Feeling About the Future of Medicine
NYSE: JNJ
Johnson & Johnson

The newest investment from the health-care giant may be small, but it could revolutionize the way we think about medicine and ourselves.
Fool contributor Maxx Chatsko has no position in any stocks mentioned. Check out his personal portfolio, his CAPS page, or follow him on Twitter @BlacknGoldFool to keep up with his writing on energy, bioprocessing, and biotechnology.
The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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