How gut bacteria use and compete for Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 trafficking and selectivity in gut bacteria
This study is looking at how Vitamin B12 is used by different bacteria in our gut, which could help us understand how these bacteria compete for this important nutrient and how it might affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088313 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Vitamin B12 in the gut microbiome, focusing on how different bacteria transport and utilize this essential nutrient. By studying the mechanisms of Vitamin B12 trafficking, the research aims to understand how gut bacteria compete for this vital resource, which could influence individual health and disease susceptibility. The approach involves analyzing the genetic and biochemical pathways that bacteria use to acquire and metabolize Vitamin B12, providing insights into the complex interactions within the gut ecosystem.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or those interested in understanding how their gut microbiome affects their health.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal issues or are not interested in microbiome-related health may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating gut bacteria to improve health outcomes and treat diseases linked to microbiome imbalances.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial interactions and nutrient competition can lead to significant advancements in microbiome-related therapies, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
Eugene, United States
- University of Oregon — Eugene, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mascarenhas, Romila Nina — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Mascarenhas, Romila Nina
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.