UAB Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery Distinguished Professor in the Heersink School of Medicine Aurelio Galli, Ph.D., D. Sc., and UAB Division of Surgical Oncology Assistant Professor Angela Carter, Ph.D., have been awarded $2.7 million to study "The role of microbiome composition in amphetamine abuse" through the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

First acquired by infants through the birthing process, an individual's microbiome is comprised of all the bacterial components in their soft tissues and organ systems. Throughout life, the microbiome is impacted by diet and environmental factors. 

 It is believed that each person's unique bacterial flora can directly impact major biological responses, such as inflammation and immunity to certain conditions.

Together, Carter and Galli are exploring the novel ways in which microbiomes can directly impact the propensity for amphetamine misuse and, potentially, how it can be avoided.

"Microbes exist all around us and create the molecules that help facilitate so many physiological functions," says Carter, who is also a fellow of the Center for Underrepresented Research in Addiction program. "I am grateful to have the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Galli and investigate how we can harness the power of the microbiome to address the treatment of specific diseases."

Galli has long researched the biology behind amphetamine misuse -- including the publication of a study last year in Science Advances discussing how amphetamines are acting in the brain.

"Exploring this new frontier marks an opportunity for us to truly harness the power of microbiomes," says Galli. "We are excited to have the opportunity to uncover risk factors and address tangible treatment solutions for amphetamine misuse."

This marks Galli's third simultaneous, active R01 research grant.