How gut bacteria help organisms adapt to environmental pollutants
The role of the gut microbiome in host adaptation to environmental xenobiotics - mechanisms and long-term consequences
This study looks at how the tiny bacteria in our gut help us deal with harmful substances like pesticides and antibiotics, using a small worm called C. elegans to see how these bacteria react and what it might mean for our health in the long run.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10421956 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria living in our intestines, helps organisms adapt to environmental pollutants like pesticides and antibiotics. Using the model organism C. elegans, the study will explore how these bacteria respond to exposure to harmful substances and the potential long-term effects on health. The researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind microbiome adaptation and how these changes might contribute to variations in health and disease among humans. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to uncover the balance between beneficial adaptations and potential negative health consequences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to environmental pollutants or those experiencing health issues potentially linked to gut microbiome changes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to environmental pollutants or do not have microbiome-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how gut bacteria influence health and disease, potentially informing treatments for conditions related to microbiome imbalances.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome in health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shapira, Michael — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Shapira, Michael
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 below.