The chemical language of human gut bacteria and aging
Official title: The chemical language of human gut bacteria in healthy aging
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11448730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A Duke University study will look at how healthy aging is linked to molecules produced by gut bacteria, with a focus on people who might be at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $664,591 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG097704-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11448730 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are older adults or individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease who have interest in gut health and aging research and could contribute samples or participate in future related studies.
✕Less likely to help
People with conditions unrelated to gut microbiome effects on aging or those unable to participate in microbiome-related research may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project explores how the gut microbiome changes with age and how bacteria produce small molecules that might influence aging and brain health. Researchers will identify bioactive metabolites from Bifidobacteria and study how these compounds interact with human pathways linked to aging and Alzheimer’s disease. The work combines microbiology, chemistry, and biology to uncover mechanisms that could someday lead to therapies for healthier aging and cognitive decline. If successful, findings could point to new ways to support brain health through gut-based approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal gut-derived compounds that promote healthy aging and potentially slow cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: Previous animal studies suggest gut microbes influence aging and cognition, and this project seeks to translate those ideas toward human biology.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Shuo — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Han, Shuo
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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.