Exploring the role of anaerobic bacteria in health and disease
Official title: Anaerobic Microbiology Research Core
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-11014469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny germs that live without oxygen to see how they affect our health, especially in areas like oral cancer, gut health, and the effects of opioid withdrawal in teens, so we can learn more about how they might help us stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $413,410 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM152333-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014469 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include adolescents experiencing gut health issues or those affected by opioid use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to anaerobic bacteria or those not within the adolescent age group may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the functions of anaerobic microorganisms that thrive in oxygen-free environments and their impact on human health. The Oklahoma Center for Microbiome Research will establish a specialized core to cultivate and study these bacteria, which are crucial for various biological processes. The research will involve multiple projects, including investigating how certain anaerobes contribute to oral cancer, influence gut health, and affect the microbiome during opioid withdrawal in adolescents. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the role of these bacteria in diseases and overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating conditions linked to anaerobic bacteria, such as cancer and gut disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elshahed, Mostafa S — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Elshahed, Mostafa S
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.