Mark Mimee, assistant professor of microbiology and molecular engineering, has received a Scialog (short for science and dialog) Award for his joint proposal with Faranak Fahatti from the University of California-San Francisco, to investigate the microbiome and its relationship with neurobiology. The award was given to 6 multidisciplinary teams to further understanding of the gut-brain connection and the role microbiota plays in neurodegenerative disorders.
Species-specific Modulation of Human Enteric Neurons by Gut Microbiome Metabolites, Mimee and Fattahi’s winning proposal, is for the study of microbial metabolites that activate the enteric nervous system—molecules produced in the digestive system that influence things like motor control in the intestines and the secretion of gastrointestinal enzymes. Findings from their research could potentially lead to new therapeutic options for neurological conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
