Investigating how environmental changes affect microbial evolution and adaptation.
Official title: Using Experimental Evolution to Evaluate Environmental Effects on Microbial Mutation and Adaptation
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10901919 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain bacteria, like E. coli and Lactobacillus crispatus, change and grow when they face ups and downs in their food supply, which could help us understand their role in our health and illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 8, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $387,119 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150625-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901919 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with conditions influenced by microbial imbalances, such as gastrointestinal disorders or infections, may benefit from this research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-microbial related health issues or those not affected by microbial imbalances may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how microbes, particularly E. coli and Lactobacillus crispatus, adapt to changing environments characterized by feast and famine conditions. By simulating these conditions in a laboratory setting, the study examines how factors like oxygen availability influence microbial growth and survival. Using advanced techniques in microbiology, the researchers aim to understand the genetic and metabolic changes that occur in these bacteria as they respond to resource fluctuations. This knowledge could provide insights into microbial behavior in human health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing microbial infections and enhancing beneficial microbial functions in the human microbiome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding microbial adaptation through similar experimental approaches, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Behringer, Megan Grace — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Behringer, Megan Grace
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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.