Grant: Team Grant: Canadian Microbiome Initiative 2: Research Teams

The global epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) reduces lifespan and quality of life, and exerts enormous pressure on Canadian health systems. It is now well documented that changes in the composition of the gut microbiota (bacteria living in the intestine) accompany obesity and factors that increase risk of T2D. Most of the evidence for the microbiome's role in T2D is from bacteria in the feces. We have exciting evidence that bacteria and/or bacterial fragments are altered in the upper gut and selectively accumulate in the circulation, liver and various fat depots of obese women and men. Critically, T2D status dictates the body site-specific bacterial signatures in these obese subjects. The long-term objective of our team research program is to define the identity and function of the specific bacterial strains compartmentalized in specific gut segments versus body tissues in the progression of insulin resistance and T2D. We aim to use this knowledge to develop novel diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic approaches for diabetes to reduce disease burden. The overarching goal of this team grant application is to build synergies among Canadian microbiome and diabetes experts to advance knowledge by integrating new concepts and state-of-the-art technologies.