How gut bacteria affect the development of the visual system

Microbiome Modulation of Visual System Development

NIH-funded research University of Oregon · NIH-11066419

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect brain development and vision in people with autism and ADHD, using zebrafish to find out how these tiny microbes could help improve visual problems linked to these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oregon NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Eugene, United States)
Project IDNIH-11066419 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between gut bacteria and the development of the visual system in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. It aims to understand how a healthy microbiome influences brain development and visual function. Using a zebrafish model, the study will explore the interactions between gut bacteria and brain cells to identify specific pathways that may be affected by microbial factors. The goal is to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for visual dysfunction associated with these disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Not a fit: Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those not experiencing visual system dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving visual function in patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in brain development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Eugene, 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 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorderautism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.