Understanding how beneficial bacteria colonize their hosts
Official title: Genetic analysis of beneficial bacterial colonization
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11002293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how helpful bacteria, like Vibrio fischeri, communicate with and live in squids, aiming to understand how they successfully settle in the squid's light organ even when other microbes are around, which could lead to new ways to use good bacteria for health benefits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | January 8, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $367,294 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148385-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002293 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in gut health and those with conditions related to microbial imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to microbial colonization or those who do not have access to the specific bacterial treatments being studied may not benefit.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular communication between beneficial bacteria and their animal hosts, specifically focusing on the Vibrio fischeri-squid system. By studying how this bacterium colonizes the squid's light organ, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow for specific bacterial colonization despite the presence of competing microbes. The approach involves genetic manipulation of the bacteria and imaging techniques to observe the colonization process in real-time. This research could provide insights into how beneficial bacteria can be harnessed for health applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for promoting beneficial bacterial colonization in humans, potentially improving gut health and immune function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding host-microbe interactions using similar models, indicating potential for breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mandel, Mark J — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Mandel, Mark J
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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.