How bacteria affect the behavior and physiology of tiny worms.
Microbial Modulation of Physiology and Behavior of C. elegans
This study looks at how bacteria affect the tiny worm Caenorhabditis elegans and how these tiny creatures respond to their environment, which could help us understand similar effects in humans and how our health and behavior might be influenced by the microbes around us.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11051857 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between bacteria and the tiny worm Caenorhabditis elegans to understand how these microbes influence the worm's physiology and behavior. By using molecular genetics and studying the nervous system signaling, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms through which bacterial metabolites can alter the worm's responses, such as avoidance behavior. The findings could provide insights into similar interactions in more complex animals, including humans, and how these interactions affect health and behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the effects of microbiota on behavior and physiology, particularly those with conditions influenced by microbial interactions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to microbial interactions or those not interested in the implications of such research may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of how microbial interactions influence behavior and physiology, potentially informing treatments for related human conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding host-microbe interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Dennis H — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kim, Dennis H
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.