How the human gut microbiome changes during colonization
Evolutionary Dynamics of the Human Gut Microbiome During Colonization
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut change and settle in after receiving a fecal transplant, which could help us understand how to make these treatments work better for people with different health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896972 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the dynamics of the human gut microbiome and how it adapts during colonization, particularly after fecal microbiome transplants (FMTs). It aims to understand why some microbial strains successfully colonize the gut while others fail, which is crucial for improving treatment outcomes for various diseases. By developing new statistical methods to analyze metagenomic data, the study seeks to uncover the evolutionary processes that influence gut microbiome adaptation and colonization. This could lead to better strategies for manipulating the microbiome to enhance health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals undergoing fecal microbiome transplants or those with gastrointestinal disorders related to microbiome imbalances.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have gastrointestinal issues or are not undergoing microbiome-related treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diseases associated with gut microbiome disruptions.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in understanding microbiome dynamics in animal models, but this research aims to apply those insights specifically to human gut microbiome colonization, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garud, Nandita — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Garud, Nandita
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.