Gut Microbes, Aging, and Heart Health in American Indians
Gut microbiome, aging and cardiometabolic diseases in American Indians
This project looks at how the tiny living things in our gut, called the gut microbiome, might be connected to aging and heart-related conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure in American Indian communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11321466 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies change as we age, and some people develop conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions are more common in American Indian communities, and we know that the bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in our gut play a big role in our overall health. When these gut microbes are out of balance, it can lead to chronic health problems. This work aims to understand how the gut microbiome changes with age and how it contributes to these health conditions, considering factors like genetics and lifestyle.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work focuses on understanding the gut microbiome, aging, and cardiometabolic diseases in American Indian populations.
Not a fit: Patients not part of the American Indian population or those without cardiometabolic conditions may not directly benefit from this specific population-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding the gut microbiome's role could lead to new ways to prevent or manage age-related heart and metabolic diseases, especially for American Indians.
How similar studies have performed: While the link between gut microbiota and metabolic disorders is recognized, this work addresses specific knowledge gaps regarding microbial signatures, host factors, and population differences in American Indians.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Jinying — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Jinying
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 below.