Investigating how a microbiome metabolite affects aging and obesity
Official title: Microbiome Metabolite Valerobetaine: Mechanisms in Aging
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10763615 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called valerobetaine, found in our gut, affects aging and obesity, especially in older adults, to help us understand how what we eat and our gut health might influence age-related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $430,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG080247-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10763615 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing obesity or age-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not elderly or do not have obesity-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a microbiome metabolite called valerobetaine in the aging process and its connection to obesity. The study aims to understand how valerobetaine disrupts mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism, which is crucial for energy production in cells, particularly in older adults. By examining its effects in older mice, the researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that link obesity with accelerated aging. The findings could lead to new insights into how dietary components and gut health influence age-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing obesity-related aging effects and improving health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's role in aging and obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jones, Dean Paul — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jones, Dean Paul
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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.