Investigating how a microbe-generated metabolite supports gut health and energy metabolism
Official title: Valerobetaine is a microbe-generated metabolite that induces mitochondrial biogenesis and maintains epithelial integrity
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11061099 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance made by gut bacteria, called valerobetaine, might help keep your gut healthy and manage energy in your cells, which could be helpful for people dealing with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK134204-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061099 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of inflammatory bowel disease or those experiencing gut health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any gastrointestinal conditions or those not affected by inflammatory bowel disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific metabolite produced by gut microbes, called valerobetaine, can help maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier and influence energy metabolism in cells. By analyzing small molecules through advanced techniques, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which valerobetaine affects gut health and potentially prevents inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients may benefit from insights into how gut microbiome metabolites can improve their overall health and reduce inflammation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating inflammatory bowel disease and improving gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiome metabolites in health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Askew, Lauren Casey — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Askew, Lauren Casey
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.