We propose to study the role of the gut microbiome in the development of obesity, and whether we can change the microbiome's contribution to host energy balance through diet. We have created a novel model that explicitly links the effects of microorganisms on human energy balance and modeled weight change, and will use the power of metabolic ward studies to measure small changes in energy absorption, total daily energy expenditure, and/or food intake that affect long-term weight gain or loss. By integrating clinical measurements, bioreactor experiments, and mathematical modeling, we will be able to describe cause-and-effect mechanisms that will enable a quantification of the microbiota's contribution to weight gain and inspire future studies on the interactions of diet, the gut microbiome, and human physiology.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
16
Participants will consume either a Control Western Diet or a Microbiome Enhancer Diet.
Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes
Orlando, Florida, United States
The primary endpoint for the protocol is the within-participant difference in fecal energy (via chemical oxygen demand, COD) normalized to the total daily energy intake and to the non-metabolizable marker PEG [COD (kcal) / PEG (g)].
Comparison within subject of control diet versus microbiome enhancer diet.
Time frame: Days 24-29 vs. Days 53-58
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