Understanding how animals and bacteria work together for mutual benefit
Official title: Elucidating Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Cooperation in Animal-Bacterial Symbioses
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11086700 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain animals, like the Hawaiian bobtail squid and newts, work together with helpful bacteria to stay healthy, and it hopes to find out how these partnerships can teach us about keeping our own good bacteria in balance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | August 8, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150478-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086700 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals interested in microbiome health, particularly those with conditions related to gut or skin microbiota.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in microbiome research or those not affected by conditions related to bacterial interactions may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that enable animals to form beneficial relationships with bacteria, focusing on two model systems: the Hawaiian bobtail squid and the skin microbiome of newts. By studying how these animals interact with their bacterial partners, the research aims to uncover how they ensure cooperation and mutual benefit. The approach involves examining the genetic and molecular factors that facilitate these interactions, which are crucial for both the animals' survival and their health. The findings could provide insights into how similar mechanisms operate in humans, where maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria is essential.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of human microbiomes and strategies for enhancing health through beneficial bacterial interactions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding animal-bacterial symbioses, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heath-Heckman, Elizabeth a. — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Heath-Heckman, Elizabeth a.
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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.