Understanding gut microbes and their by-products in type 2 diabetes
The role of gut microbes and microbial derived metabolites in the development of type 2 diabetes in humans
This research explores how the tiny living organisms in our gut and the substances they produce might contribute to type 2 diabetes in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127689 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that the community of microbes in our gut, called the microbiome, is connected to type 2 diabetes. Previous studies in animals suggest that changes in these gut microbes and their chemical by-products could be important for developing the condition. However, we still need to learn which specific microbes are involved in humans and how they cause type 2 diabetes, as past human studies have been limited. This project will use a large collection of samples and health information from nearly 7,000 individuals in Finland, gathered over 15 years, to find these connections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding type 2 diabetes in a large group of individuals from Finland who have provided samples and health data over many years.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in the causes of type 2 diabetes related to gut health may not find direct benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the root causes of type 2 diabetes, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat the condition by targeting gut microbes.
How similar studies have performed: While other studies have linked gut microbes to type 2 diabetes, this research aims to identify specific microbial species and their by-products that directly contribute to the disease in humans, which is a less explored area.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Majithia, Amit — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Majithia, Amit
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.