How gut bacteria affect the development of the visual system
Official title: Microbiome Modulation of Visual System Development
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11066419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32EY035578-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those not experiencing visual system dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: James, David M. — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: James, David M.
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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.