How gut bacteria change in response to high-fat diets

The genomics and consequences of gut bacterial adaptation to high-fat diets

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-11142656

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut change when we eat a lot of fat and how those changes might affect our health, so if you're curious about how your diet impacts your gut and overall well-being, this research is for you!

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11142656 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how gut bacteria adapt to high-fat diets and how these changes can impact human health. By analyzing the genomes of gut bacteria, the study aims to identify specific genetic adaptations that occur when the diet is high in fat. The researchers will use advanced techniques to observe these adaptations and their effects on metabolic health, including experiments with germ-free mice to test the impact of these bacterial changes on the host. This work could provide insights into how diet influences gut health and overall well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are experiencing issues related to obesity or metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by high-fat diets or do not have metabolic health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better dietary recommendations and interventions for improving metabolic health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that gut microbiota can adapt to dietary changes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, 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.
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.