Understanding Gut Bacteria Through Breath
Breathprinting as a window into gut microbiome chemoecology
['FUNDING_R01'] · CHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA · NIH-11159487
This project explores how the gases in your breath can reveal information about the bacteria living in your gut, especially in infants.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159487 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our gut bacteria significantly influence human health, impacting the immune system, nutrient processing, and even neurological function. Imbalances in these gut communities are linked to various diseases, including malnutrition and autoimmune conditions. Currently, it's challenging to easily check on gut bacteria in a patient setting. This project aims to overcome this by using breath analysis, based on the idea that the volatile compounds in breath reflect the composition and activity of gut microbes. We will look at the connection between breath, specific gut bacteria, and their metabolic functions, and observe how breath profiles change in infants as their gut bacteria develop.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for infants, as it involves studying changes in their developing gut bacteria and breath profiles.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to gut microbiome health or who are outside the infant age group may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a simple, non-invasive breath test to quickly understand gut health and identify imbalances, making it easier to guide patient care.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary work in both germ-free mice and humans suggests that breath composition can indeed provide insights into gut microbiota.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- CHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ODOM JOHN, AUDREY RAGAN — CHILDREN'S HOSP OF PHILADELPHIA
- Study coordinator: ODOM JOHN, AUDREY RAGAN
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.