Tungsten's role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome
W-Health: Tungsten is an Essential Metal for a Healthy Gut Microbiome
This study is looking at how a metal called tungsten helps certain good bacteria in your gut break down harmful substances, and it could help us understand how what you eat might affect your gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10689950 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the importance of tungsten, a metal not commonly studied in biology, for the health of the gut microbiome. It aims to understand how certain gut microbes utilize tungsten-containing enzymes to break down harmful substances produced during digestion. By analyzing various gut microorganisms, the research seeks to uncover the essential functions of these tungsten-dependent enzymes and their impact on gut health. Patients may benefit from insights into how dietary tungsten could influence their gut microbiome and overall health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with gastrointestinal issues or those interested in improving their gut health.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have gastrointestinal concerns or those who are not interested in dietary interventions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or treatments that enhance gut health by optimizing tungsten levels.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of tungsten in human health is relatively novel, previous studies on trace metals in microbiome health have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adams, Michael W. — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Adams, Michael W.
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.