How ketogenic diets affect gut bacteria and metabolism

Host-microbiome interactions shape the metabolic effects of ketogenic diets

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10788377

This study is looking at how a ketogenic diet, which is low in carbs and high in fats, affects the bacteria in your gut and your overall health, especially for people dealing with obesity and related conditions, to find better ways to help manage these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10788377 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how ketogenic diets, which are very low in carbohydrates and high in fats, influence the gut microbiome and metabolic health. It aims to understand the interactions between the host's metabolism and gut bacteria, particularly how changes in diet can affect immune responses and metabolic conditions. By examining these relationships, the study seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for obesity and related metabolic diseases. The research employs advanced techniques to manipulate both the host's genetics and the gut microbiome to explore these interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are struggling with obesity or related metabolic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective dietary strategies for managing obesity and improving metabolic health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of diets on gut microbiota, making this approach both innovative and grounded in existing scientific literature.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.