Understanding how gut bacteria acquire essential metals
Official title: Microbiota Metallophores: Probing Interactions and Nutrient Dynamics of the Human Gut
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-11143934 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gut bacteria, like Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, compete for important nutrients like iron and zinc, especially when the gut is inflamed, to help us understand how these tiny helpers affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $371,333 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155026-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143934 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal issues or those interested in understanding the role of gut bacteria in their health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no gastrointestinal concerns or those not interested in microbiome-related health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between gut bacteria and their ability to acquire essential metal nutrients like iron and zinc, which are crucial for their growth and function. By studying the production of metallophores—molecules that bind metals with high affinity—the research aims to uncover how these bacteria compete for limited resources in the human gut. The approach includes examining how specific bacteria, such as Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, utilize these metallophores to thrive in metal-limited environments, particularly during conditions like bowel inflammation. This work could provide insights into the microbiome's role in health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing gut health and treating conditions related to microbiome imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microbial interactions and nutrient acquisition in various environments, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aron, Allegra — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Aron, Allegra
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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.