Understanding how viruses that infect bacteria affect gut health

From cells to communities: The multi-scale impacts of bacteriophages in the gut microbiome

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10873199

This study is looking at how certain viruses that target bacteria, called bacteriophages, work in our gut and how they might help us fight infections that don't respond to antibiotics, which could lead to better treatments for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873199 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, in the human gut microbiome. It aims to explore how these phages interact with bacteria and the overall microbial community, particularly in the context of antibiotic resistance. By employing advanced data generation and analysis methods, the research seeks to uncover the dynamics of phage-bacteria interactions and their implications for gut health. This knowledge could lead to improved therapeutic strategies, such as phage therapy, to combat antibiotic-resistant infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders or infections that are resistant to standard antibiotic treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have gastrointestinal issues or are not affected by antibiotic-resistant infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using phage therapy to treat bacterial infections, indicating that this approach could be a viable solution to antibiotic resistance.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.