How nutrients and gut bacteria work together to prevent C. difficile infections
Official title: The interplay between nutrient availability and secondary bile acid metabolism in commensal Clostridia mediates colonization resistance against C. difficile
Funded at North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-11062441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the nutrients we eat affect helpful gut bacteria that can fight off infections from C. difficile, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how our gut health can protect us from serious stomach issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project start | April 24, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $380,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149222-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for C. difficile infections, such as those with a history of antibiotic use or gastrointestinal disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for C. difficile infections or those with unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between nutrient availability and the metabolism of secondary bile acids by beneficial gut bacteria, specifically Clostridia, to understand how they help prevent infections from C. difficile. Using advanced technologies and various experimental methods, the team will analyze the gut microbiome and metabolome in animal models. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms through which the gut microbiota maintains colonization resistance against harmful pathogens like C. difficile, which can cause severe gastrointestinal infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing C. difficile infections, improving gut health and patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in preventing infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
North Carolina State University Raleigh
Raleigh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Theriot, Casey Michelle — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Theriot, Casey Michelle
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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.