A new probiotic treatment to prevent brain issues in premature infants
Official title: A novel live biologic for the prevention and treatment of NEC-induced neurodevelopmental impairment
Funded at Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11195672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to give probiotics to premature babies, especially those with a serious gut condition called NEC, to help protect their brain development and reduce inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $656,958 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD116839-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11195672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants born before 31 weeks of gestation, particularly those at risk for NEC.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or do not have a risk of NEC may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel probiotic delivery system designed to prevent neurodevelopmental impairment (NI) in premature infants, particularly those affected by neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The approach involves administering the probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri in a protective biofilm that enhances its beneficial properties and reduces inflammation. By studying the effects of this treatment in both NEC-affected and healthy control pups, the researchers aim to optimize dosing regimens that could mitigate the long-term impacts of NEC on brain development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of neurodevelopmental impairment in premature infants, leading to better long-term health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using probiotics to reduce inflammation and improve outcomes in similar populations, suggesting a potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
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Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bailey, Michael T — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Bailey, Michael T
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.