Understanding how certain microbes are passed from parents to offspring

Mechanisms facilitating microbial co-inheritance

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10983773

This study is looking at how certain tiny germs called Wolbachia are passed down through generations in different living things, including humans, to understand how they affect health and could help us find new ways to manage infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10983773 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which specific intracellular microbes, particularly Wolbachia, are co-inherited across generations in various organisms, including humans and arthropods. By using insect models, the study aims to uncover the factors that influence the transmission of these microbes and their effects on host health. The research focuses on how these microbes can impact diseases, immunity, and even the gut microbiome, potentially leading to new strategies for managing infections. Patients may benefit from insights gained about microbial interactions and their implications for health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with conditions linked to microbial infections or those affected by vector-borne diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any microbial infections or related health issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for preventing or treating diseases associated with microbial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbial co-inheritance and its effects on host health, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.