Diarrhea, fiber and colon cancer: Environmental contributions to low colon cancer risk in sub-Saharan Africa

Funding: Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)

This study proposes a novel mechanism for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention. The team will examine a population with low risk for colon cancer, individuals in sub-Saharan Africa, with special attention to the role of dietary fiber consumption and pathogenic intestinal bacteria. Insights could have implication for targeted prevention of CRC in high-risk groups.

Analysis of fecal biomarkers of microbial protein degradation following nutritional intervention for healthy aging

Funding: Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)

The NutriAct intervention study is a randomized controlled clinical trial involving elderly participants with age-related impairments. The NutriAct dietary pattern of the intervention group, which includes the increased intake of plant protein, is assumed to improve metabolic, cardiovascular, cognitive and other age-related endpoints.

Diet affects the human intestinal microbiota on both the community and the cellular level, which in turn may affect host functions. Dietary changes may rapidly lead to a modified pattern of bacterial fermentation products and changes in gut microbial composition. In the NutriAct intervention study, we are investigating how the nutritional intervention impacts on fecal biomarkers that indicate bacterial protein degradation in the large intestine, such as short branched-chain fatty acids, phenols and ammonium. Based on observed diet-dependent differences in those biomarkers, we will analyze underlying changes in the composition of gut bacteria. These studies aim to clarify, whether the increased protein uptake leads to detrimental health effects mediated by the intestinal microbiota.

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