Genomic and ecological study of Akkermansia in human milk sugars
Official title: Genomic determinants and ecological interactions of human associated Akkermansia grown on core human milk oligosaccharides
Funded at California State University Northridge · NIH-11424248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how different Akkermansia bacteria interact with core human milk sugars to understand how these gut microbes influence health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Northridge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Northridge, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $147,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R16AI201106-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11424248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years or older, particularly those with Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus or at risk for it.
✕Less likely to help
Healthy individuals without gut microbiome concerns may not directly benefit beyond general knowledge that could inform future products.
What this research studies
This project looks at how various Akkermansia species grow on common human milk sugars and how they interact with other gut bacteria. It aims to map the genetic and metabolic factors that let these microbes colonize and persist in the adult gut. The findings could guide future dietary or probiotic approaches to support gut health, including in adults with diabetes risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could inform targeted probiotics or dietary strategies to support a healthy gut microbiome in adults, including those with or at risk for diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research shows Akkermansia can influence health, but linking specific species/strains to diet-driven outcomes is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Northridge
Northridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flores, Gilberto — California State University Northridge
- Study coordinator: Flores, Gilberto
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.