Research project ERA-Net Cofund on INtesTInal MICrobiomics, diet and health, implementing JPI HDHL objectives

In progress HDHL-INTIMIC 01/12/2016 → 31/12/2025

Contact our expert

Nikki De Clercq

ILVO researcher

Contact

Info Contact

General introduction

The goal of this European research network is to achieve a healthy gut flora in everyone. Nutrients that can influence gut flora and thus human health have been increasingly well documented since the completion of an ERA-Net, in which ILVO played a coordinating role. This specific ERA-Net Cofund, called HDHL-INTIMIC, was implemented as a new joint action within the European Joint Programming Initiative “A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life” (JPI HDHL), which focuses on the relationship between nutrition and health. This project focused on the development of new strategies and health-promoting nutritional products to prevent chronic diseases related to the gut microbiota. The researchers focused on the gut microbiome (intestinal microbiomics).

Research approach

Fourteen international partners from nine member states pooled their knowledge and funded international research on nutrients (diets) that can influence gut flora and thus human health. One of ILVO's roles was to clearly communicate the background information and results of the research projects to stakeholders.

Relevance/Valorization

Within the H2020 ERA-Net Cofund HDHL-INTIMIC research network, part of the HDHL (Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life initiative), 14 European partners from 9 member states worked together to streamline knowledge and research funding around nutrients that can affect the gut microbiome and thus human health. The research projects conducted increased basic knowledge about the gut microbiome and its relationship with health, the impact of nutritional components and strategies for preventive and therapeutic applications. In addition, an “Intestinal Microbiomics” knowledge platform was also established within this network. ILVO had the responsibility to coordinate various research calls, disseminate background information, organize project seminars and clearly communicate research results to stakeholders.