Understanding how gut microbes affect brain communication through a specific enzyme
Official title: The role of superoxide dismutase SOD-1 in microbe-gut-brain interaction
Funded at Rowan University School/osteopathic Med · NIH-10624844 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gut bacteria might help the brain communicate better by focusing on a protein called SOD-1, using tiny worms to see if certain signals from bacteria can affect memory and brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rowan University School/osteopathic Med NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stratford, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2019 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $338,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM131156-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10624844 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have any cognitive or neurodegenerative issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD-1) in how gut microbes influence communication between the gut and the brain. Using the nematode C. elegans, a simple model organism, the research aims to uncover how bacteria activate SOD-1 and whether neuropeptides serve as signaling molecules in this process. By exploring these interactions, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of gut-brain communication and its implications for memory and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how gut health impacts brain function and potentially inform treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gut-brain interactions, but the specific role of SOD-1 in this context is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rowan University School/osteopathic Med
Stratford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Howard C — Rowan University School/osteopathic Med
- Study coordinator: Chang, Howard C
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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.