How gut bacteria process iron and heme

Understanding how heme and iron are metabolized by anaerobic commensal bacteria and host-microbiome communities

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN · NIH-11036388

This study is looking at how certain bacteria in your gut help break down iron from food, which could help us understand more about iron deficiency and related health problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOZEMAN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11036388 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of anaerobic bacteria in the digestive tract and how they metabolize dietary iron and heme. By understanding these processes, the study aims to uncover how gut bacteria influence iron absorption in the host. The research will focus on specific gut microbes that are known to thrive in low-oxygen environments, examining their metabolic pathways and interactions. This could provide insights into nutritional disorders like iron deficiency and its related health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing iron deficiency or anemia, particularly those with dietary concerns.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to iron absorption or anemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for iron deficiency and anemia, benefiting a significant portion of the population.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on anaerobic bacteria and heme metabolism is relatively novel, there have been successful studies exploring gut microbiota's role in nutrient absorption.

Where this research is happening

BOZEMAN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.