A new oral medication to reduce inflammation in the gut

A novel, pleiotropic oral drug class that inhibits gut migration of activated T cells

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · ORPHAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS · NIH-10823015

This study is testing a new oral medication designed to help people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by stopping certain immune cells from causing inflammation in the gut, and it’s currently being tested in mice to see how well it works and if it’s safe.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorORPHAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10823015 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel oral medication that targets inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by inhibiting specific receptors involved in T cell activation and migration to the gut. The approach involves using small molecule antagonists to block the retinoic acid receptor-alpha, which is crucial for the gut homing of inflammatory T cells. By preventing these cells from accumulating in the gut, the medication aims to improve gut health and reduce inflammation. The research includes preclinical testing in mouse models to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the new drug.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease who have not responded adequately to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with mild gastrointestinal issues or those who do not have inflammatory bowel disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, potentially improving their quality of life and reducing symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting gut homing receptors for IBD treatment, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.