Understanding the human virome's impact on health and disease

Human Virome Characterization Center for the Oral-Gut-Brain Axis

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10990434

This study is looking at the viruses in our bodies and how they affect our health as we age, especially how they connect our mouth, gut, and brain, and it’s inviting people to help by sharing samples and information to make sure the results are useful and safe for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10990434 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the human virome, which consists of all the viruses present in the human body, and its role in health and disease across different age groups. By studying diverse healthy human cohorts over time, the project aims to uncover how these viruses interact with our biological systems, particularly focusing on the oral-gut-brain axis. The research also emphasizes the ethical, legal, and social implications of virome research, ensuring that findings are trustworthy and beneficial to the public. Participants may be involved in providing samples and data that contribute to this comprehensive understanding.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are healthy individuals aged 21 and older from diverse backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients with existing severe health conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how the human virome affects overall health and disease prevention.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the human microbiome, suggesting that similar approaches to studying the virome could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.