Project Establishing a probiotic approach to promote microbial modulation of soy isoflavones Program Health & Human Sciences Term Academic Year 2024 Status Closed Research Area Gut microbiome, gnotobiotic mouse model, metabolites Description Our research explores how gut microbiota transforms soy isoflavones into metabolites with higher estrogen potency, which may be good or bad for health depending on our body's estrogen levels and needs. Surprisingly, only 30% of people in the U.S. have the gut bacteria needed for this process, unlike the rodents often used in studies. To bridge this gap, we've developed a mouse model that lacks this ability, aiming to explore if introducing certain bacteria to these mice could promote this transformation. This could lead us to innovative probiotics that help manage estrogen-related health issues, making a leap toward personalized health solutions. Supervisor Tzu-Wen L. Cross Mentor Tzu-Wen L. Cross Type of work required Working with mice, collection of tissues, analysis of metabolites, and the gut microbiota Websites Qualifications GPA of 3.4 or higher and do not have a fear of working with rodents. Credit Hours 7 Weekly Hours 12 (estimated)