Understanding how gut bacteria process sugars to improve health
Official title: Gatekeeping glycan metabolism in the human gut microbiome
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10898926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut use sugars from our food and body, with the goal of finding new ways to improve gut health and help with various health issues, so you might get helpful tips for your diet or treatments to support a healthier gut.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $371,991 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148075-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing gastrointestinal disorders or those interested in improving their gut health through dietary changes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable gut health and no gastrointestinal issues may not see direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the ways in which bacteria in the human gut metabolize glycans, which are complex sugars derived from our diet and body. By exploring these metabolic processes, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies to alter the gut microbiome's composition, potentially addressing various health issues. The study will involve analyzing how different bacteria compete for these sugars and how this competition affects overall gut health and disease states. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to dietary recommendations or treatments that promote a healthier gut microbiome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance gut health and prevent or manage diseases linked to gut microbiota imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating gut microbiota through dietary interventions, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sundberg, Eric John — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Sundberg, Eric John
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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.