Understanding how gut bacteria are passed between family members

Uncovering the rules of gut microbiome strain transmission

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11011352

This study is looking at how families share gut bacteria and how that might affect health, especially for kids, by examining the gut microbes of parents and their children over time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011352 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how gut microbiome strains are transmitted within families, particularly focusing on the role of familial relationships in the acquisition and maintenance of these microbial strains. By studying the gut bacteria of parents and children, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind microbial sharing and its long-term effects on health. The approach includes analyzing genetic variations of gut bacteria to track their transmission patterns over time. This could provide insights into how early life exposure to certain microbes influences health outcomes later in life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include families with children, particularly those interested in understanding the health implications of their gut microbiome.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have familial relationships or those who are not interested in gut health may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating gut-related health issues by understanding the role of familial microbiome transmission.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microbial transmission through familial relationships, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.