Understanding how the tiny living things in our bodies change over time
Elucidating the Evolution of Microbial Genes, Genomes and Communities
This research helps us learn how the microbes in our bodies, like bacteria, have changed alongside humans and how they affect our health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143737 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are exploring how the vast community of microbes living inside us, known as the microbiome, has evolved. This involves using advanced genetic tools and computer analysis to understand how these microbes adapt and interact with our bodies. We are particularly interested in how certain bacteria have evolved with humans over millions of years and how they might influence our dietary traits. By looking at the genetic variations of these microbes in different people, we can piece together the evolutionary story of the human microbiome.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but its findings could eventually benefit individuals with conditions linked to their microbiome or diet.
Not a fit: Patients whose health conditions are not related to the human microbiome or its evolutionary history may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of how our microbiome influences our health and disease, potentially guiding future treatments or dietary recommendations.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon a growing field of genomic methods that have already transformed our understanding of microorganisms and microbiomes.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ochman, Howard — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Ochman, Howard
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.