Rules of Genome Evolution and Design in Small, Single-Stranded DNA Phages
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-11202655 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores how tiny ssDNA phages evolve and how their genetics could be harnessed, with potential implications for gut health and microbiome balance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $373,960 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM160478-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11202655 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with Crohn's disease or related gut conditions who are interested in microbiome research and future microbiome-targeted therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals with Crohn's disease who are not connected to microbiome-based research or whose care is unrelated to gut microbiota may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers aim to unlock how Microviridae phages with very small genomes adapt and function, using synthesis from genomic data to build functional microbes in the lab. The work plans to develop reverse genetics methods to study these phages and their interactions with bacterial hosts, with attention to how their evolution affects the gut microbiome and human health. The approach combines genomics, synthetic biology, and controlled laboratory experiments to characterize core genes and their roles. Findings could illuminate microbiome dynamics related to obesity and cognitive function through phage-bacteria relationships.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A deeper understanding of gut microbiome dynamics could inform future strategies to promote healthy digestion, weight balance, and cognitive function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work with phages and microbiome interactions has shown promise, but this project explores a novel, streamlined approach with small ssDNA phages.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirchberger, Paul — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Kirchberger, 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.