Harnessing Bacteroides to treat type 2 diabetes
Description
The prevalence of metabolic deseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D), is extremely high in Canada and worldwide. Besides the fact that the gut microbiota is a determinant of T2D, methods to treat metabolic diseases based on the gut microbiota are still eluding us.
Previous work from my laboratory have pointed to Bacteroides and other bacterial groups as potential treatment targets to aid blood glucose control.
In the present project we will capitalize on these bacterial targets to (i) improve fecal microbial transplant (FMT)-based treatments and to (ii) develop new postbiotics aiming to alleviate T2D and, potentially, other metabolic deseases.
The studies will take place in mouse models of obesity/pre-diabetes as well as in gnotobiotic mice (germ-free mice colonized with a known set of microbes). We will utilize molecular biology techniques to understand the immunometabolic bases of bacterial consortia and products thereof found to improve metabolic homeostasis in mice. We will apply microbiology techniques to select bacterial consortia of interest in culture.
These studies will pave the way for novel gut microbiota-based treatments for T2D testable in humans in follow up studies.
This project is funded by Diabetes Canada and by the IUCPQ Foundation.
Research Field
- Metabolism
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Microbiota
- Immunometabolism
- Postbiotics
Research Supervisor
Fernando Forato Anhe
Research Environment
Quebec Heart and Lung Institute (IUCPQ)
The IUCPQ, or Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, is a renowned research institution specializing in cardiology and pulmonology. Located in Quebec City, Canada, it is affiliated with Université Laval and serves as a hub for cutting-edge medical research, clinical care, and education.
The research environment at the IUCPQ is characterized by a combination of state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to advancing knowledge in cardiovascular and pulmonary health. Here are some key aspects of the research environment at the IUCPQ:
1. **State-of-the-art Facilities**: The institute boasts modern laboratories equipped with advanced technology and instrumentation necessary for conducting a wide range of research experiments and studies. These facilities support both basic science research and clinical investigations.
2. **Interdisciplinary Collaboration**: Collaboration is encouraged among researchers from diverse backgrounds, including cardiologists, pulmonologists, biomedical scientists, bioengineers, and other healthcare professionals. This interdisciplinary approach fosters innovation and allows for comprehensive exploration of complex health issues.
3. **Clinical Research Integration**: The IUCPQ integrates clinical research seamlessly into its environment, facilitating translational research efforts that bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and patient care. Researchers have access to patient populations and clinical data, enabling them to conduct studies that directly impact medical practice.
4. **Focus on Translational Research**: There is a strong emphasis on translational research, with a goal of translating scientific discoveries into tangible improvements in patient outcomes. This includes developing new diagnostic tools, treatment strategies, and preventive measures for cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases.
5. **Training and Education**: The institute provides training opportunities for students, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals interested in cardiovascular and pulmonary research. Through mentorship programs and hands-on experience, aspiring researchers are nurtured to become future leaders in the field.
6. **Partnerships and Collaborations**: The IUCPQ collaborates with other research institutions, universities, and industry partners on both national and international levels. These partnerships enhance the scope and impact of research initiatives, facilitate resource sharing, and promote knowledge exchange.
7. **Commitment to Excellence**: The research environment at the IUCPQ is characterized by a culture of excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement. Researchers are encouraged to pursue ambitious research goals, adhere to high ethical standards, and contribute to scientific advancements that have real-world implications for patient care.
Overall, the research environment at the IUCPQ is dynamic, collaborative, and focused on advancing our understanding of cardiovascular and pulmonary health while striving to translate research findings into tangible benefits for patients.
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Doctorate in Molecular Medicine
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
$21000 per year for 5 years.
The student will receive a 21K scholarship per year and the program is expected to take approximately 5 years for completion. Initially, funds will come from Dr Anhê's research grants. Very importantly, however, the student must continously apply for scholarships to cover in part or in totality his/her annual paiment.
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
Program progress award (S-1 to S-8)
|
8 x $525 |
| Program progress award (S-9 to S-11) |
3 x $200 |
Successful completion of Ph.D exam
|
$800 |
Submission of dissertation deposit before the end of the 12th semester
|
$2,000 |
Language training
|
$250 |
| Total |
$7,850 |
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
Supplemental Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship Program: Entitles international students to pay Canadian student tuition fees, for overall savings of around $40,000.
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.
Desired Profile
- Biomedical Science
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Microbiology
Requirements and Conditions
- Excellent English skills (speak, write, and understand very well)
- Be interested by the mechanisms of metabolic diseases, including immunometabolism and gut microbiota
- Previous experience with mouse models
- Notions on molecular biology techniques (qPCR, western blot)
- Notion on microbiology
- Excellent communication skills
- Pro-active
- Natural leadeaship
Required Documentation
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
We will only email back the candidates whose applications were deemed of interest.
If you do not receive a response within 1 week past the date of application it means we unfortunately decided to move on with another candidate.
If we consider your application interesting, we will request an interview via Teams and look for references prior to making a final decision.
Application Deadline
May 15, 2024
Find Out More
Fernando Forato Anhe
Professeur
Département de médecine
fernando.forato-anhe@criucpq.ulaval.ca