How gut bacteria use sugars to influence health and immunity
Official title: Human gut bacterial cell surface polysaccharides as a microbial nutrient source and target of immunoregulatory proteins shape gut microbiota structure and function
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11088136 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the sugars on gut bacteria help shape the balance and health of our gut, which could lead to new ways to improve gut health for people dealing with digestive issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 8, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $215,520 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AT011374-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088136 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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no gastrointestinal issues or those not interested in gut health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the sugars found on the surface of gut bacteria affect the composition and function of the gut microbiota, which is crucial for human health. By examining how these bacterial polysaccharides serve as nutrients and interact with immune proteins, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better management of gut health. The research involves laboratory experiments to analyze bacterial growth and nutrient utilization, as well as in vivo assessments to understand these processes in living organisms. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new dietary or therapeutic strategies for gut-related health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing gut health and related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wesener, Darryl a — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Wesener, Darryl a
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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.