Walter Lab

Professor Jens Walter’s expertise lies at the interface of evolutionary ecology of the gut microbiome and human nutrition. He is interested in the evolutionary and ecological processes that shape host-microbiome interactions and the translation of basic microbiome science into therapeutic and nutritional strategies. His team has pioneered the application of ecological theory to elucidate factors that shape gut microbiomes (host genetics, diet, priority effects, dispersal) and to achieve targeted and more systematic modulations of microbiomes via discrete fibre structures and live microbes (probiotics and FMT). Prof. Walter’s team has conducted more than a dozen human trials investigating the effects of fibre supplements, prebiotics, whole dietary interventions, probiotics, and synbiotics on gut microbiome composition and function and its links to human health.

Recipient of a prestigious Research Ireland Professorship on Microbiome Restoration (Microbe Restore), he has a strong track record of knowledge translation, accelerating novel, cutting edge research into health innovations in the microbiome field.

Prof. Walter recently led the development of the Non-industrialized Microbiome Restore (NiMe^TM) diet. Inspired by traditional, non-industrialised dietary habits, the NiMe diet was designed to restore key functions of the gut microbiome that are adversely affected by industrialisation. The diet emphasizes plant-based foods but also includes animal products in agreement with their consumption by many traditional human populations, while limiting hyperpalatable processed foods. Prof. Walter’s team validated the health effects of the NiMe diet in a strictly controlled human nutritional trial. The results were profound. In three weeks, participants experienced significant health improvements including weight loss (although the diet was given at the subject’s individual caloric requirements), a 17% reduction in ‘bad’ cholesterol, 6% reduction in blood sugar and 14% reduction in C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation and heart disease). Furthermore, these benefits were associated with positive changes in microbial-derived blood metabolites and the gut microbiome of participants.

Professor Walter’s goal is it to continue to advance our understanding of the intricate relationship between lifestyle factors that shape the gut microbiome and human health. The long-term goal of his research is it to generate a mechanistic understanding of these links while developing practical applications to modulate microbiome to improve health and prevent chronic diseases.