Investigating the role of gut bacteria and fungi in obesity.

Is Obesity an Infectious Disease?: Gut bacterial and fungal translocation as an underappreciated driver of visceral adipose expansion.

NIH-funded research Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10896134

This study is looking at how certain bacteria and fungi in your gut might be linked to gaining belly fat, and it's for people who want to understand more about weight gain and find new ways to manage it.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896134 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how certain gut bacteria and fungi may contribute to the expansion of visceral fat, which is a significant factor in obesity. By examining the interactions between these microorganisms and adipose tissue, the study aims to identify new strategies for mitigating weight gain. The approach includes analyzing samples from patients to understand how these microbes may influence fat accumulation and metabolic health. The ultimate goal is to develop effective interventions that could complement existing obesity treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals struggling with obesity, particularly those with visceral fat accumulation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that help reduce obesity and its related health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut microbiome's role in obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.