Understanding how gut bacteria use complex carbohydrates

Two-Component System Design Principles

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11088502

This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria, called Bacteroides, use the fiber in our food to create nutrients that help both them and us, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our gut health works and how it might affect inflammation.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11088502 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a specific group of gut bacteria, known as Bacteroides, utilize complex carbohydrates found in our diet and gut lining. By focusing on a family of transcription factors that regulate this process, the research aims to uncover how these bacteria convert dietary fibers into nutrients that benefit both themselves and humans. The study employs advanced techniques like chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing to identify the genes involved in this regulation, which could have implications for gut health and inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal conditions or those interested in gut health and nutrition.

Not a fit: Patients with no gastrointestinal issues or those not interested in dietary impacts on gut health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations and treatments for gut-related health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gut microbiota interactions with diet, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.