How certain gut bacteria form biofilms and their role in health
Plasmid encoded biofilm formation by the intestinal Bacteroidales and its importance in community ecology and resilience
This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria form protective layers called biofilms and how this affects the balance and health of our gut bacteria, which could help develop new treatments for gut-related issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11076297 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of biofilm formation by Bacteroidales, a group of bacteria in the gut, and how it affects the health and resilience of the intestinal microbiota. The study focuses on a specific plasmid, pMMCAT, which allows these bacteria to form biofilms and transfer genetic material among themselves. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers aim to uncover how these biofilms contribute to the stability and function of gut communities, which is crucial for human health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting gut microbiota.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal conditions or those interested in gut health and microbiome studies.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal issues or are not interested in microbiome research may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gut-related health issues by enhancing our understanding of gut microbiome dynamics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gut microbiota dynamics, but this specific focus on biofilm formation by Bacteroidales is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garcia-Bayona, Leonor — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Garcia-Bayona, Leonor
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.