How gut bacteria influence gene expression in intestinal cells
Official title: Microbial regulation of intestinal epithelial gene expression
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11136418 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how the bacteria in our gut influence the way our intestinal cells work, especially in absorbing nutrients and protecting our immune system, to help us understand how these processes might be linked to gut health and diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $661,225 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK141168-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136418 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 interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any gastrointestinal issues or those not interested in the role of gut bacteria in health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria in our intestines affect the way intestinal cells express genes that are crucial for nutrient absorption and immune defense. It focuses on understanding the balance between genes that are activated and suppressed by these microbes, particularly looking at the role of specific transcription factors. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover the complex interactions between different gene pathways in maintaining gut health. This could lead to insights into how disruptions in these processes might contribute to intestinal diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating or preventing intestinal diseases by targeting microbial interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in health, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rawls, John F — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Rawls, John F
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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.