Exploring how insects and their gut bacteria evolve together and affect immunity
Official title: Understanding host-microbiome coevolution and genetic variation in immunity using an insect model system
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11286283 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny bugs called pea aphids and the bacteria in their guts work together and affect their health, which might help us learn more about our own health and how to prevent diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | February 17, 2025 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $381,677 |
| NIH project number | 7R35GM154800-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11286283 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for potential benefit from this research would include individuals with immune system disorders or those interested in gut health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to microbiome health or immune system function may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between insects, specifically pea aphids, and their gut bacteria to understand how they evolve together and influence the immune system. By manipulating the bacteria present in these insects, researchers aim to uncover how genetic variations in the immune system affect the microbiome and overall health. The study utilizes advanced techniques to analyze the interactions between host genetics and beneficial microbes, providing insights that could be relevant to human health and disease prevention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving immune health and preventing diseases linked to microbiome imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding host-microbe interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parker, Benjamin James — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Parker, Benjamin James
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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.