Microbiome and Nutrition
The complex community of bacteria, yeasts and viruses living in our intestines, collectively known as the gut microbiome, is shaped, in part, by what we eat. Genetics, environment, and other factors also influence an individual’s microbial community. Research at the NRI investigates these complex relationships and their impact on disease risk. We use animal models and bioinformatics to study the associations between nutritional metabolites, gut microbiome, and health. What happens in the gut doesn’t stay in the gut. Your microbiome can play a role in cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes, and even cancer. Our team envisions a future where analysis of your microbiome can determine disease risk, and medical foods can be prescribed to treat and prevent disease by regulating the microbiome.
Publications
Microbiome and Nutrition Publications
2020
Population studies of TMAO and its precursors may help elucidate mechanisms. Meyer K
2019
Association of dietary patterns with the gut microbiota in older, community-dwelling men. Meyer K
2018
Meta-analysis of human genome-microbiome association studies: the MiBioGen consortium initiative. Meyer K
Human microbiota, blood group antigens, and disease. Sumner S
2017
Trimethylamine N-Oxide, the Microbiome, and Heart and Kidney Disease. Zeisel S
2016
Diet and Gut Microbial Function in Metabolic and Cardiovascular Disease Risk. Meyer K
Antibiotic-mediated gut microbiome perturbation accelerates development of type 1 diabetes in mice. Sumner S
Related News
"Cabarrus This Week" on YouTube Features NRI
Cabarrus This Week, a YouTube channel that features events and institutions found in Cabarrus County, featured the UNC Nutrition Research Institute. Watch the full show!
Landmark Gift Creates $1M Professorship at NRI
A generous gift from the Dickson Foundation and Harris Teeter will be matched by funds from the North Carolina Distinguished Professors Endowment Trust to create the NRI’s first endowed, distinguished professorship, The Dickson Foundation-Harris Teeter Distinguished Professorship in Nutrition.
Charles L. Dayvault Memorial Fund Supports NRI
The Charles L. Dayvault Memorial Fund has been established at the NRI in Kannapolis to support the development of individualized nutrition – the study of why metabolism and nutrient requirements differ from person to person. The fund honors Mr. Dayvault’s commitment to the Kannapolis community.
Dr. Oz Says NRI Leads in Field of Individualized Nutrition
In the September 12, 2011, issue of Time Magazine, Dr. Mehmet Oz, noted surgeon, author and talk show host, recognizes the NRI as a leader in the field of individualized nutrition as scientists here study the link between our genes and diet.
How the Cookie Crumbles: Latest Update on Childhood Diabetes Research
Elizabeth Mayer-Davis, Ph.D.
Obesity and Diabetes: Recent Advancements Reveal There's More to the Story
Liza Makowski, Ph.D.