NIH research projects to track activities of gut-derived metabolites

Artist rendering of intestinal villi (small finger-like projections) and gut bacteria.

Ten new research projects funded by NCCIH will investigate possible links between microorganisms in the digestive tract and the transformation of dietary compounds into substances known as metabolites. These metabolites may influence growth, reproduction, and health and may contribute to the health benefits of fruits and vegetables.

Here’s a quick look at a few of these projects:

Researchers from the University of Massachusetts–Amherst will identify metabolites of a compound from citrus fruits and test their effects on inflammation.

At Louisiana State University, researchers will evaluate the effect of fenugreek seeds on intestinal microorganisms and their metabolites to identify substances that may influence the body’s response to Western-style diets.

And at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, researchers will define the activities of a group of metabolites from grapes and berries and identify the bacteria that produce them.