Stool DNA markers for ultraprocessed food intake
DNA Biomarkers of Ultraprocessed Food Intake
['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11297143
This work uses DNA found in stool to identify how much ultraprocessed food adults, including people with adult-onset diabetes, have been eating.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11297143 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would provide a stool sample that researchers analyze with a method called FoodSeq to detect plant DNA left from foods you ate. The team will look specifically for DNA from three common crops—corn, soy, and wheat—that often occur together in ultraprocessed foods. By measuring these DNA signatures instead of relying on memory-based food reports, the test aims to give a more objective picture of processed food exposure. Researchers will link these biomarkers to dietary patterns and diabetes-relevant outcomes in adult participants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults (21+) including people with adult-onset/type 2 diabetes who are willing to provide stool samples and dietary information.
Not a fit: People who cannot or will not provide stool samples, children, or those whose diets rarely include the target crops (corn, soy, wheat) may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could provide an objective, low-burden test to measure processed-food intake that helps patients and clinicians better manage diet-related risks like type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work with FoodSeq has shown promise for tracking plant intake and dietary compliance in feeding trials, while using corn/soy/wheat co-occurrence as a marker of ultraprocessed food is a newer application.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DAVID, LAWRENCE ANTHONY — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DAVID, LAWRENCE ANTHONY
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.
Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus