How beneficial gut microbes can improve metabolism and liver health
Official title: Beneficial microbe driven rewiring of metabolic pathways in the gut and liver
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11018534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how good bacteria in our gut can help improve liver health and fight issues like diabetes and obesity, and it's for anyone interested in better understanding how these microbes might help our bodies work better and reduce liver damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK139762-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from metabolic conditions such as adult-onset diabetes, obesity, or liver injuries related to acetaminophen.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or liver conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of beneficial gut microbes in influencing metabolic pathways related to liver health and conditions like adult-onset diabetes and obesity. By studying the metabolites produced by these microbes, the research aims to understand how they can positively affect the body's metabolism and reduce liver injury caused by substances like acetaminophen. The approach involves using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry to analyze small molecules in mice that are fed a high-fat diet and supplemented with beneficial microbes. The ultimate goal is to develop new biotherapeutics that can help treat metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve metabolic health and reduce liver damage in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using beneficial microbes to improve metabolic health, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gacasan, Camilo Anthony G — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Gacasan, Camilo Anthony G
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.