NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how gut bacteria affect inflammation and diabetes

Official title: Genetic determinants of Bacteroides vulgatus colonization fitness and host inflammatory responses

Funded at Duke University · NIH-11083754 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific gut bacterium called Bacteroides vulgatus might affect inflammation and diabetes in people, hoping to find out how different strains of this bacterium can influence our health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$648,179
NIH project number5R01DK136231-03
Project IDNIH-11083754 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases or adult-onset diabetes.

Less likely to help

Patients without gastrointestinal issues or those not affected by diabetes may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the gut bacterium Bacteroides vulgatus in influencing inflammation and diabetes in humans. By examining the genetic diversity of different B. vulgatus strains, the study aims to uncover how these variations affect the body's inflammatory responses. Using advanced animal models, researchers will analyze how specific genetic traits of these bacteria contribute to health outcomes, particularly in relation to inflammatory bowel diseases and diabetes. The findings could lead to new insights into how gut microbiota impacts overall health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for inflammatory diseases and diabetes by targeting specific gut bacteria.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut microbiome's role in health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Duke University
    Durham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rawls, John F — Duke University
  • Study coordinator: Rawls, John F

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.