Creating therapies to strengthen the gut barrier after radiation exposure
Official title: Development of targeted microbiome therapeutics and dietary interventions for potent intestinal barrier promotion to minimize GI-ARS
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10986106 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain probiotics and dietary changes can help improve gut health for people who have been exposed to radiation, like in nuclear accidents, to make their digestive system stronger and reduce related problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | December 22, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $568,565 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI172987-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986106 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to total body irradiation due to nuclear incidents or other related circumstances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced radiation exposure or those with unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing targeted microbiome therapies and dietary interventions to enhance the intestinal barrier in patients exposed to total body irradiation, such as from nuclear accidents or attacks. By investigating specific bacteria and probiotics that can promote gut health, the study aims to improve the body's resilience against gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). Patients may benefit from new treatments that help restore gut integrity and function, potentially reducing the severity of radiation-related gastrointestinal issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that significantly improve gut health and recovery for patients affected by radiation exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microbiome-targeted therapies for improving gut health, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bucci, Vanni — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Bucci, Vanni
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.