This exploratory pilot project aims to evaluate the feasibility and initial efficacy of an innovative family-centered approach to genetic counseling that combines patient- centered principles and mental health techniques to address the cognitive and emotional needs of parents whose infants have abnormal DNA analyses from newborn screens (NBS) for cystic fibrosis (CF).

The launch of the Human Microbiome Project (HMP), and the corresponding interest in bioengineered probiotic therapies that this new NIH initiative is likely to generate, provide a unique opportunity for research examining ethical and social considerations in the introduction of new therapeutic modalities. To date, analysis of ethical and social considerations in the use of probiotics have focused on "over the counter" applications where physician involvement in the selection and administration of the probiotic is limited.

The ability to utilize biospecimens collected at the time of birth for research that integrates genetic variation, social and environmental exposures, and health outcomes may be an invaluable resource in promoting epigenetic approaches to disease prevention and health promotion. There are a growing number of perinatal biobanks in the US and globally, including many focused on preventing prematurity, specific childhood conditions, or birth defects.