Understanding how gut bacteria are passed from mothers to their offspring
Official title: Uncovering the modes and genetics of gut bacterial transmission
Funded at Princeton University · NIH-11058701 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how mothers pass gut bacteria to their babies during birth and how these bacteria change with social interactions and the environment, using mice to help us understand how this process works and what it means for our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Princeton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 20, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $361,557 |
| NIH project number | 7R35GM138284-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058701 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the role of gut microbiota in health, particularly those with conditions related to gut health or immune function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not interested in or affected by gut microbiota or related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how gut bacteria are transmitted from mothers to their offspring during birth and how these bacteria are influenced by social interactions and the environment throughout life. The study focuses on identifying specific bacterial lineages that are inherited and understanding the genetic factors that affect this transmission. By using mice as a model, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind gut microbiota assembly and its implications for health and disease. This work could provide insights into the evolution of symbiosis between gut bacteria and mammals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of gut health and the development of strategies to enhance beneficial gut bacteria in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding gut microbiota transmission in animal models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Princeton University
Princeton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moeller, Andrew — Princeton University
- Study coordinator: Moeller, Andrew
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.