Understanding how gut bacteria work together for better health
Official title: Niche Partitioning of Commensal Clostridia in the Gut
Funded at Clemson University · NIH-10930830 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of gut bacteria, especially Bacteroides, work together to help break down the food we eat and keep our gut healthy, which could lead to better diets and treatments for digestive issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $376,224 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150609-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930830 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in improving their gut health, particularly those with gastrointestinal disorders or those seeking dietary interventions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established gastrointestinal diseases that are not related to microbiome diversity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions of gut bacteria, focusing on how different species, particularly Bacteroides, coexist and function together. By examining the ways these microbes break down nutrients from our diet, the study aims to uncover how they contribute to overall gut health and resilience. The research will utilize advanced bioinformatics and ecological modeling to analyze the metabolic strategies of these bacteria and their roles in maintaining a diverse microbiome. This knowledge could lead to improved dietary interventions and treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of gut health and lead to better nutritional strategies for maintaining a healthy microbiome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding niche partitioning among gut bacteria, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Clemson University
Clemson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seekatz, Anna Maria — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Seekatz, Anna Maria
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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.