Prof. Omri Koren from the Faculty of Medicine won an ERC grant for his research dealing with the development of a post-biotic supplement to protect mothers and newborns
Prof. Omri Koren from the Faculty of Medicine At Bar-Ilan University, he won the PoC - The proof of concept grant. Prof. Koren, one of the most cited microbiologists in the world, examines the increased use of antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and how it affects the microbiome of the mother and the development of the fetus. These effects may have long-term consequences on the behavior of the baby, including their level of aggression.
Prof. Koren's microbiome research laboratory presented promising findings supporting the hypothesis that aggressive behaviors are partially influenced by the population of intestinal bacteria and metabolic compounds related to them. In light of this, Prof. Koren is developing post-biotic supplements based on bacterial metabolites to be taken after using antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The purpose of the supplements is to preserve the intestinal bacteria population and its function, thus minimizing changes in the behavior of the baby.
The project, called PRO-MOM, is based on Koren's laboratory findings and is progressing to create a pre-clinical model to reduce aggression and other side effects associated with the use of antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If the research bears fruit, it will reduce risks and complications associated with taking antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding and may even save lives.
The PoC research grant in the amount of 150 thousand euros, was given by the European Research Council (ERC) to provide funding to researchers who are currently receiving or have previously received ERC funding, so that they can progress from the groundbreaking research phase to the invention phase. Prof. Koren previously won an ERC grant for his initial research linking gut bacteria, hormones and aggression.
More of the topic in Hayadan:
