How early gut bacteria affect colon health through gene changes
Early Environment, Developmental Epigenetics, and Adult Colonic Diseases
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut during early life can shape our intestines and might influence the risk of developing colon issues later on, helping us find better ways to prevent and treat conditions like colitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10579855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbial colonization in early life and its impact on the development of the intestinal system. It focuses on understanding how DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism, influences the interactions between gut bacteria and intestinal stem cells, which are crucial for gut function. By studying these processes, the research aims to uncover how changes in gut microbiota can affect gene expression and potentially lead to colonic diseases in adulthood. The findings could provide insights into the prevention and treatment of conditions like colitis and other colon disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are interested in understanding the impact of early life gut health on adult colon diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with established colonic diseases who are beyond the early developmental stages may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating colonic diseases by targeting early gut microbiota and epigenetic changes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between gut microbiota and epigenetic changes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Lanlan — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Shen, Lanlan
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.