Linking prebiotics to gut bacteria using advanced protein analysis
Official title: Proteomic Stable Isotope Probing as a Novel Approach for Linking Prebiotics with Active Gut Microbiota
Funded at University of Oklahoma · NIH-11092918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fibers in our diet, called prebiotics, help good bacteria in our gut thrive, and it aims to find out exactly which bacteria are doing the work and how they do it, so we can create better diets for improving gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norman, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $351,194 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AT011618-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in improving their gut health, particularly those with metabolic disorders or gastrointestinal issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume prebiotics or have no interest in dietary interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how prebiotics, which are dietary fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, interact with these microorganisms at a metabolic level. By using a technique called proteomic stable isotope probing (SIP), the study aims to identify which specific gut bacteria are responsible for metabolizing prebiotics and how they do so. This involves optimizing mass spectrometry methods to improve measurement accuracy and speed, allowing for a better understanding of the gut microbiome's role in health. The findings could help in developing targeted dietary interventions to enhance gut health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective dietary recommendations and therapies that improve gut health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using proteomic techniques to study gut microbiota, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma
Norman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Chongle — University of Oklahoma
- Study coordinator: Pan, Chongle
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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.