How gut bacteria affect fat absorption and metabolism

Microbial regulation of intestinal lipid metabolism and its physiological consequences

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10991717

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut affect how our bodies handle dietary fats, which could help us understand better ways to manage weight and diabetes for people who are dealing with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991717 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of gut microbiota in regulating how the body absorbs dietary fats and how this process influences overall health. By studying mice and zebrafish, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms through which specific bacteria can alter fat metabolism in intestinal cells. The project focuses on understanding how these microbial interactions can lead to changes in energy balance and potentially contribute to conditions like obesity and diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new dietary or therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or adult-onset diabetes who may benefit from interventions targeting gut microbiota.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gut health or metabolism may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new approaches for preventing or treating obesity and diabetes by targeting gut bacteria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in metabolism, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.