How gut bacteria defend against harmful toxins
Official title: Human gut Bacteroidales defense mechanisms against emerging antibacterial toxins
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11071101 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria protect themselves from others by making special toxins, and it aims to find out how this affects gut health, which could help improve treatments for gut-related problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $46,402 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI189149-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071101 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or those interested in gut health and microbiome studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal issues or are not interested in microbiome research may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific group of bacteria in the human gut, known as Bacteroidales, produce antibacterial toxins to protect themselves from competing bacteria. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms these bacteria use to resist the harmful effects of these toxins, which could influence the overall health of the gut microbiome. By analyzing the interactions between these bacteria and their toxins, researchers aim to uncover new insights into gut health and disease. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to improved treatments for gut-related health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for maintaining or restoring a healthy gut microbiome, potentially improving digestive health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding bacterial interactions in the gut, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanford, Tristan C. — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Sanford, Tristan C.
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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.