Exercise is one of the most well-studied behaviors affecting cardiovascular function, adiposity, and insulin sensitivity amongst other host systems. More recently, it has been revealed the gut microbiome shapes these same systems based upon its response to exercise. Applying traditional approaches of exercise physiology, we examine mechanistic relationships between the gut microbiome and measures of physical fitness, body composition, and acute vs. chronic exercise.

The gut microbiome is a complex consortium of microorganisms with a functional potential greater than the human genome. Utilizing culture-dependent and -independent techniques, we focus on short-chain fatty acid and amino acid producers because of their potential to modulate human health. Through the combination of in vitro models and metagenomic sequencing, we analyze microbial community structure and function using anaerobic cultures and bioreactors in order to study the gut microbiome.

Advancements in technology has provided insight on the potential of the gut microbiome to influence human health. The use of germ-free mice and the application of fecal microbiome transplants have generated novel discoveries into host-microbe interactions. We look to leverage translational systems to investigate the potential of the gut microbiome to improve exercise response at the individual level what we term “precision exercise”.