How beneficial gut microbes can improve metabolism and liver health

Beneficial microbe driven rewiring of metabolic pathways in the gut and liver

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11018534

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 typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018534 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from metabolic conditions such as adult-onset diabetes, obesity, or liver injuries related to acetaminophen.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or liver conditions may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions acetaminophen-induced liver injuryadult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes MellitusAPAP-induced liver injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.