How viral DNA in gut bacteria affects probiotic functions
Official title: Prophage-mediated regulation of antimicrobial production
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11031191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viral DNA in probiotic bacteria helps them produce a helpful substance called reuterin, which can improve gut health, and it aims to find ways to make probiotics even better for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,730 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187756-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031191 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 improving their gut health through probiotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any gastrointestinal issues or those who are not interested in probiotic treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of prophages, which are viral DNA segments within bacteria, in regulating the production of a beneficial antimicrobial substance called reuterin by probiotic bacteria. The study aims to understand the mechanisms through which these prophages influence bacterial metabolism and how this interaction can affect gut health. By examining the relationship between probiotic bacteria and their prophages, the research seeks to uncover insights that could lead to improved probiotic therapies for enhancing human health. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and in vivo assessments to evaluate the ecological impact of these interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective probiotics that enhance gut health and prevent infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of prophages in pathogenic bacteria has been studied, this research explores a novel approach focusing on their impact on probiotic bacteria, making it a relatively untested area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Pijkeren, Jan-Peter — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Van Pijkeren, Jan-Peter
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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.