Exploring new enzymes from gut bacteria that can create useful chemical compounds
Official title: Discovery and Characterization of Novel Halogenases from the Human Microbiome
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-10360052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special enzymes made by bacteria in our gut that can help create useful chemicals, which could lead to greener ways of making products and help us understand how our gut bacteria affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $424,735 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM144877-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10360052 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with an interest in microbiome health or those affected by conditions related to gut bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not interested in microbiome research or do not have conditions related to gut health may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates flavin-dependent halogenases (FDHs), which are enzymes produced by bacteria and fungi that can create specific chemical bonds in organic compounds. The project aims to identify and characterize new FDHs from the human microbiome, focusing on their ability to produce aryl halides, which are important for various chemical reactions. By understanding how these enzymes work, the research could lead to environmentally friendly methods for synthesizing valuable chemicals. Patients may benefit from insights into how gut bacteria influence health through the production of these compounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for producing important chemicals that may improve treatments for various health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in utilizing enzymes from the microbiome for various applications, indicating that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bellizzi, John J. — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Bellizzi, John J.
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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.