Primary studyDecomposition & transformation
A conserved interdomain microbial network underpins cadaver decomposition despite environmental variables
Identifies interacting decomposer communities across human cadavers in different environments.
2024
Research field / 04
Decomposition & transformation
Follow the matter, not the metaphor.
Human decomposition involves interacting microbial communities and changing environmental conditions. Natural organic reduction supplies a relevant comparison, but a yeast-based process requires its own evidence. A credible program must account for all input and output material, including gases, liquids, mineral residues and implants.
Questions that matter
- What is the complete mass balance of the proposed process?
- How are pathogens, contaminants and residual materials assessed?
- Which comparisons and independent measurements would establish performance?
Sources & resources
Read our evidence note, then follow the original source.
Dataset paperDecomposition & transformation
16S rRNA, metagenomics and 2bRAD-M sequencing to decode human thanatomicrobiome
Compares microbial sequencing across tissues and decomposition stages in eight cadavers.
2024
Primary studyDecomposition & transformation
Quantifying the relative contributions of bacterial and fungal communities to carcass decomposition using a quantitative microbiome profiling approach
Quantifies bacterial and fungal communities during carcass decomposition.
2025
Provider reportDecomposition & transformation
Human Composting Soil Research
Reports a six-donor natural organic reduction pilot conducted with Washington State University.
2018