The response of the gut microbiota to a range of anti-diabetic medications and its impact on glucose control (360G-Wellcome-207214_Z_17_Z)

The key goal of this project is investigating the effect dietary intake and gut microbiota have on glucose regulation in established diabetic patients prescribed a range of anti-diabetic medications. Evidence from the literature suggests an altered microbiota is associated with changes in multiple heath parameters, including glucose regulation (Cani et al. 2014). Previous studies have illustrated that dietary intake impacts the gut microbiota profile and can enhance its diversity, an independent marker of improved functionality in vivo (Cotillard et al. 2013). This project involves microbial DNA extraction to study the effect of various anti-diabetic medications on the gut microbiota profile (from time of prescribing to 8 week follow up). Dietary intake will be assessed to determine the role of diet on the baseline microbiota in diabetic candidates. Dr. O’Connor’s team have extensive expertise in analysing gut microbiota profiles and determining the role of diet in shaping microbiota in specific populations (Power et al. 2015, O’Connor et al. 2014, Power et al. 2014, O’Connor et al. 2013), especially during aging and aging-related health loss (Claesson et al. 2012). Dr.O'Connors group have numerous ongoing dietary intervention trials to determine the role of specific food ingredients on gut microbiota in specific population groups.