How gut bacteria influence the feeding behavior of roundworms
Official title: Molecular determinants of host-feeding manipulation and microbial colonization
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10686470 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the gut can influence the eating habits of tiny roundworms, which helps scientists learn more about how our own gut bacteria might affect our behavior and choices.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,338,750 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2GM154014-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10686470 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the effects of gut microbiota on behavior and health, particularly those with gastrointestinal disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal issues or are not interested in the role of gut bacteria in behavior may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how gut bacteria can manipulate the feeding behavior of the roundworm C. elegans, which is a model organism for studying complex biological interactions. By using advanced genetic manipulation techniques, the researchers aim to understand the signals that drive interactions between the host and its microbial community. The study will involve high-throughput behavioral screening to observe how these interactions affect the worms' feeding preferences and overall behavior in response to their environment. This research could provide insights into the broader implications of gut microbiota on host behavior in more complex organisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing gut health and behavior in humans and other animals.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, studies on gut microbiota influencing behavior have shown promising results in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Odonnell, Michael Patrick — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Odonnell, Michael Patrick
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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.