Understanding how our genes affect the body's tiny living communities
Characterizing human-microbiome interactions via molecular and functional genomic approaches
This project explores how our own genes influence the tiny living communities, like bacteria and viruses, that live inside and on our bodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137706 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are home to many tiny living communities, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which are called the microbiota. These communities play a big role in our health and are linked to many different diseases. This work looks at how our individual genes might shape these communities throughout our bodies. By using genetic tools, we aim to discover the specific ways our DNA affects the makeup of our microbiome, including those living on mucosal surfaces. This deeper understanding could help us learn more about how our internal environment impacts our overall well-being.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future related studies might include individuals willing to provide biological samples to help researchers understand the genetic factors influencing their microbiome.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct therapeutic interventions would not directly benefit from this foundational genetic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways our genes influence our health through the microbiome, potentially leading to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that host genetics can affect the composition of the gut microbiome, but this project aims to fill significant gaps in understanding these interactions across the body and with other microbial components.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davenport, Emily — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Davenport, Emily
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 below.