NIH-funded research R01 grant

How genes, environment, and gut bacteria affect type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Official title: Interaction between genes, environment, the microbiome and metabolome in type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome

Funded at Joslin Diabetes Center · NIH-10786111 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how our genes, the environment we live in, and the bacteria in our gut all work together to affect the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and related health issues, using mice to see how changes in these areas can help us find better ways to treat diabetes.

More Diabetes research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJoslin Diabetes Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2020
Project endJanuary 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$526,942
NIH project number5R01DK121967-05
Project IDNIH-10786111 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, or those with other unrelated metabolic disorders, may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between genetics, environmental factors, and the gut microbiome in the development of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. By using different strains of laboratory mice, the study aims to understand how these factors contribute to insulin resistance and obesity. The researchers will manipulate the microbiome through environmental changes and antibiotic treatments to observe their effects on metabolic health. This approach could provide insights into personalized treatment strategies for diabetes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and managing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome by targeting the microbiome.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in metabolic health, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Joslin Diabetes Center
    Boston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Kahn, C Ronald — Joslin Diabetes Center
  • Study coordinator: Kahn, C Ronald

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.