Understanding how viruses affect gut bacteria

Investigating the role of phage in the gut microbiome

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV · NIH-10885135

This study is looking at how certain viruses that target bacteria, called bacteriophages, affect gut health and the immune system in mice, and it aims to find ways to get rid of harmful phages to see how they influence our overall health, especially when we change our diets or take antibiotics.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10885135 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, in the human gut microbiome. By studying the interactions between these phages and E. coli in mice, the researchers aim to uncover how phages influence gut health, immune responses, and metabolic functions. The project will also explore methods to remove harmful phages from the gut to assess their impact on the microbiome and overall health during dietary changes and antibiotic treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal issues or those interested in the effects of gut microbiome on health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have gastrointestinal conditions or are not interested in microbiome-related health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving gut health and managing conditions related to gut microbiome imbalances.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of phages in microbiomes, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

BLACKSBURG, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.