I work at MIT, where I run an NIH-funded research lab pioneering studies on interactions with intestinal microbes. My work has provided a springboard for understanding complex biological systems and translational medicine, and currently focuses on roles for microbiota in achieving good health. For example, my lab was the first to discover that bacteria stimulate production of the hormone oxytocin, unifying physical, mental, and social health. We also discovered that oral microbe therapy heals wounds more than twice as fast, promotes healthful aging, and helps prevent age-associated weight gain, among other benefits.
These and some other intriguing findings resulted in my being invited to give a TEDx talk, which you can access by clicking on the image linked below.
Our present research into “Healthful Longevity” focuses on defining good health as more than absence of physical disease, exploring the intersection of the physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of health. We work to explore the science underlying the mind-body connection and to develop innovative technologies that could ignite humanity’s inner potential for a thriving and harmonious existence.
MIT is a 501(c)3 organization, and all US donations are tax deductible. You can contact me using the subject line “Healthful Longevity” if you would like more information on supporting our work.