Vitamin B12 traffic rules in gut bacteria
Official title: Vitamin B12 trafficking and selectivity in gut bacteria
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11345594 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how gut bacteria move and choose vitamin B12 to understand how the microbiome affects health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00GM143482-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11345594 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable; basic science in gut bacteria.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient participation required for this stage.
What this research studies
This project looks at how bacteria in the human gut transport and pick up vitamin B12 and related compounds, which may influence which microbes thrive in our gut. By examining transport systems and binding preferences, the study aims to map how these nutrients shape microbial communities. The findings could inform ways to gently steer the microbiome to support health, potentially impacting digestion and treatment responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding B12 use by gut bacteria could lead to strategies that support a healthier gut ecosystem and improve responses to certain therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Other work shows that nutrient availability shapes gut microbial communities, suggesting this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mascarenhas, Romila Nina — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Mascarenhas, Romila Nina
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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.