Dietary Citrulline to Prevent RSV Bronchiolitis and Asthma in Infants
RSV-induced type 2 immune responses are inhibited by dietary citrulline supplementation during gestation and early life
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11115700
This project explores if adding a nutrient called L-citrulline to the diet of pregnant parents and their babies can help protect infants from severe RSV infections and reduce their risk of developing asthma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11115700 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Previous findings suggest that higher levels of L-citrulline at birth are linked to a lower chance of infant bronchiolitis, potentially preventing asthma later in childhood. Researchers are now testing if a diet supplemented with L-citrulline, given to parents during pregnancy and then to their offspring, can prevent severe RSV bronchiolitis in infants. Early results indicate that this special diet may reduce specific immune responses associated with severe RSV and asthma, without weakening the body's ability to fight the virus. This approach could be particularly beneficial for male infants, who are at a higher risk for severe RSV disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for pregnant individuals and their infants, especially those at risk for severe RSV bronchiolitis and childhood asthma.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or infants would not directly benefit from this specific dietary intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this dietary intervention could offer a simple and safe way to protect infants from severe RSV infections and potentially reduce their risk of developing asthma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings from this research group have shown a significant association between higher L-citrulline levels at birth and decreased infant bronchiolitis, suggesting a promising direction for this dietary approach.
Where this research is happening
NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER — NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PEEBLES, RAY STOKES — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: PEEBLES, RAY STOKES
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 below.
Conditions: Allergic Disease