Targeting harmful substances produced by gut bacteria

Enzymatic and genetic strategies for targeting disease-associated microbial metabolites

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10686498

This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria make substances that might impact our health, especially concerning colorectal cancer, and by tweaking these bacteria's genes, researchers hope to learn more about how these substances affect our bodies, which could eventually help develop new treatments or ways to prevent related diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10686498 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how certain bacteria in the gut produce metabolites that can affect human health, particularly in relation to diseases like colorectal cancer. The approach involves manipulating the genetic makeup of these bacteria to understand how their metabolites influence the body. By focusing on a specific metabolite called colibactin, which is produced by various bacteria, the research aims to uncover the complex interactions between gut microbes and host health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for diseases linked to these microbial metabolites.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to gut health, particularly those at risk for colorectal cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with no gastrointestinal issues or those not at risk for diseases linked to microbial metabolites may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases associated with harmful microbial metabolites.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating gut bacteria to understand their impact on health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Conditions DiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.