The Microbiota Research Center

Exploring the microbiome's universe

Founded in September 2017 at Chang Gung University, the Microbiota Research Center (MRC) provides a platform to study the effects of the gut microbiota on health and disease. The MRC comprises researchers from various organizations in Taiwan and other countries, including Chang Gung University, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Ming Chi University of Technology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and Chang Gung Biotechnology Corporation. 

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The MRC supports scientists who are investigating fundamental questions and developing new applications and tools to understand and harness the capabilities of microbial systems across different fields. The MRC capitalizes on the significant activities already occurring across our institutions to enable multidisciplinary collaboration between world-class experts. Using state-of-the-art facilities and instruments, our scientists have the opportunity to challenge new frontiers in this field. Our group also trains young scientists to allow them to tackle fundamental questions about the microbiota.

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To fully harness the capabilities of intestinal microbes, we must work across boundaries. Fundamental studies help us to characterize and model the microbes in our bodies, as well as in water, plants and animals. We study the molecular pathways and mechanisms underlying the effects of the gut microbiota in animals and humans in order to provide answers to various microbiota-related questions. What is happening between the gut and the brain? How can we reduce antibiotic resistance by understanding the effects of intestinal bacteria? What is a healthy gut microbiota? By searching for answers to these questions, we learn about new strategies to improve health and longevity.