Understanding how a gut bacterium competes and survives in the human gut
Official title: Genetic analysis of competition dependent fitness determinants in the human gut bacterium Phocaeicola vulgatus
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11061187 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a friendly gut bacterium called Phocaeicola vulgatus to understand how it thrives in our digestive system, especially when there are other microbes around, which could help us learn more about gut health and its connection to various health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,047 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI181537-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061187 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who may be experiencing metabolic disorders or have an interest in gut health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no gastrointestinal issues or those under 21 years old may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the gut bacterium Phocaeicola vulgatus, which plays a significant role in human gut health and is linked to various metabolic disorders. The study aims to uncover the genetic mechanisms that allow this bacterium to effectively colonize the gut, especially in the presence of competing microbes. By conducting both laboratory experiments and in vivo studies, researchers will analyze how specific genes contribute to the bacterium's fitness and survival in the gut environment. This knowledge could lead to better understanding of gut microbiota dynamics and their impact on human health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of gut health and lead to improved treatments for metabolic disorders associated with gut bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding gut microbiota interactions, but the specific focus on Phocaeicola vulgatus and its competitive fitness is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rassadkina, Yelizaveta — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Rassadkina, Yelizaveta
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.