Exploring the role of viruses in the oral-gut-brain connection
Official title: Human Virome Characterization Center for the Oral-Gut-Brain Axis
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10990429 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the viruses in our bodies, especially how they connect our mouth, gut, and brain, to see how healthy viral populations can affect our overall health and possibly relate to diseases, and it's for people of all ages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $4,399,997 |
| NIH project number | 1U54AG089335-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990429 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages who are interested in understanding the impact of their virome on health, particularly those with or at risk for brain-related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in microbiome research or those who do not have access to the participating institutions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the human virome, which includes the viruses present in our bodies, particularly focusing on their role in the oral-gut-brain axis. By studying diverse cohorts across different ages, the project aims to identify and characterize the healthy viromes and understand how changes in these viral populations may be linked to diseases. The research will utilize advanced bioinformatics and biobanking techniques to collect and analyze biological specimens, providing insights into the complex interactions between our microbiome and overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating conditions related to brain health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the human microbiome, but the exploration of the virome is still a relatively novel area with much to uncover.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kapila, Yvonne L — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Kapila, Yvonne L
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.