How diet and gut bacteria affect gene expression in the intestine
Official title: Integration of metabolism and chromatin in regulating gene expression in vivo
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11004146 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain substances made by gut bacteria from the fiber in our diet can affect how our gut cells work, helping us understand how what we eat can influence our health and well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $224,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R00GM143550-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004146 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal conditions or those interested in how diet affects their gut health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-gastrointestinal conditions or those not interested in dietary impacts on health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different metabolites, particularly short chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria from dietary fiber, influence gene expression in intestinal cells. It aims to understand the role of histone acylations, which are chemical modifications on proteins that can regulate gene activity. By studying these mechanisms in living organisms, the research seeks to uncover how environmental factors can affect cellular functions and overall gut health. Patients may benefit from insights into how dietary choices and gut microbiota impact their health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or therapies that enhance gut health and prevent diseases related to gene expression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding how metabolites influence gene regulation, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gates, Leah Ashley — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Gates, Leah Ashley
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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.