Investigating how the gut microbiome changes as people age
Prospective Study of the Gut Microbiome in Aging
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might change as we get older and how those changes could affect health issues like memory problems, weight gain, and heart disease, so if you're an older adult, your participation could help us learn how diet and lifestyle impact your health as you age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875694 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between the gut microbiome and aging, focusing on how changes in gut bacteria may influence age-related health issues such as dementia, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. By conducting a large, prospective study, researchers aim to understand how diet, lifestyle, and the gut microbiome interact to affect health outcomes in older adults. Participants will be monitored over time to assess these interactions and their implications for aging-related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those experiencing age-related health issues or interested in understanding how their gut health may affect their overall well-being.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 years old or those without any age-related health concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving health and preventing diseases in older adults through dietary and lifestyle interventions targeting the gut microbiome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that gut microbiome alterations are linked to various age-related diseases, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Andrew T — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Chan, Andrew T
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.