Grant: Operating Grant

Gut bacteria are known to shape the body immune system and to affect the function of the gut. Many studies have shown that patients with chronic gut diseases, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, have either abnormal or unstable balance of gut microbes. We believe that this abnormal balance of bacteria, that normally reside harmlessly in our gut, can produces abdominal cramping and diarrhea, and also lead to altered mood. We propose to collect and examine the bacteria from stool samples in patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome during 6 month period, and investigate whether alteration in bacteria correlate with changes in gut symptoms and mood. We plan then to colonize germ-free mice with gut bacteria from symptomatic patients and investigate possible mechanisms causing gut dysfunction and mood changes. If there is indeed a difference in the bacterial population in symptomatic individuals, this information could lead to new treatments, such as prebiotics or probiotics, to cure this chronic problem.