GIMM has opened a new phase of volunteer recruitment for participation in a research project aimed at understanding the role of the microbiome in menopause. The initiative is led by researcher Ana Santos Almeida, head of the Microbiome in Health and Disease Translational Laboratory.

This work seeks to explore how the communities of microorganisms present in the body – particularly in the gut and reproductive tract – affect symptoms, risks, and quality of life during menopause. “We want to understand how the microbiome can be an ally in women’s health, helping to prevent diseases associated with this stage of life and to promote more personalized solutions,” explains Ana Santos Almeida.

Volunteer recruitment will take place during the Semana da Mama event – an initiative promoted by GIMM, from October 2 to 5, in Algés – during which samples will also be collected for the Biobank.

Volunteers must be between 40 and 64 years old, have no intestinal-related diseases, and be available to provide a blood sample and a stool sample, as well as to answer a health questionnaire.

The project is part of GIMM’s mission to promote translational research that bridges fundamental science and clinical practice and is funded by a grant from the Biocodex Foundation Portugal.

With the results of the study, which will involve 300 women, the aim is to prevent and treat menopausal symptoms, while also contributing to a better understanding of the relationship between the microbiome and women’s health.