Exploring how gut microbes break down beta-glucans and their effects on health
Official title: Identification and Functional Characterization of Bioactive Microbial Metabolites of Beta-Glucan Degradation
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11088833 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut help break down certain carbohydrates called beta-glucans and how this might improve gut health and help with autoimmune diseases, so if you have an autoimmune condition, you might find useful information about how your diet can make a difference.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $696,092 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136094-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088833 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune conditions or gut inflammation who are interested in dietary interventions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autoimmune diseases or gut-related issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbiota in breaking down beta-glucans, a type of carbohydrate, and how this process affects autoimmune diseases and gut inflammation. By analyzing the metabolites produced during the degradation of beta-glucans, the study aims to understand their beneficial effects on gut health and immune regulation. The research employs both in vitro and in vivo methodologies to characterize these microbial metabolites and their functional impacts on the body. Patients may benefit from insights into how dietary components can modulate gut health and potentially alleviate autoimmune conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary strategies or nutraceuticals that improve gut health and reduce the severity of autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary components to influence gut microbiota and improve health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vasu, Chenthamarakshan — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Vasu, Chenthamarakshan
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.