Endometriosis, the microbiome, and the immune system
Official title: Endometriosis, the microbiome and innate immunity
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11260319 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small study will look at how the reproductive microbiome and immune cells called neutrophils interact in women with endometriosis and pelvic pain or infertility.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 14, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $235,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD120228-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11260319 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Women undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy for pelvic pain or infertility who may or may not have endometriosis.
✕Less likely to help
People without endometriosis or those not experiencing pelvic pain or infertility may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This project will enroll women undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy for pelvic pain or infertility and compare those diagnosed with endometriosis to those without. Researchers will analyze gut/urogenital microbiome data and study neutrophil behavior to understand how bacteria may influence inflammation in endometriosis. The study uses 16S sequencing to profile microbial communities and links these findings to immune cell activity. By focusing on biology that could connect microbes, immune responses, and endometriosis, it aims to uncover mechanisms that drive symptoms and disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could highlight microbial and immune targets that inform new treatments to reduce pain and improve fertility for people with endometriosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests the microbiome and neutrophil behavior are linked to inflammatory conditions, but the exact role in endometriosis remains to be clarified.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farr Zuend, Christina — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Farr Zuend, Christina
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Molecular clues to endometriosis-related infertility
This grant explores how molecular changes in endometriosis contribute to infertility, with the aim of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
-
Hormonal Influences on Inflammation in Endometriosis
A study in adult women with endometriosis looks at how hormones and immune pathways interact to influence inflammation and symptoms.
-
How genes influence endometriosis in women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds
The team will compare genetic changes in tissue from women of various races who have endometriosis to find molecular targets for better treatments.
-
Quantum diamond sensor endoscopy to map iron in endometriosis
A tiny quantum sensor built into an endoscope will map iron in endometriosis lesions to help diagnose the disease noninvasively.
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Understanding how RPLP1 affects endometriosis and adenomyosis
A patient-focused look at how a ribosomal protein called RPLP1 may drive tissue changes in endometriosis and adenomyosis and what this could mean for future therapies.
-
CXCR4 methylation in endometriosis and its role as an early biomarker and non-hormonal therapy target
This project explores how changes in CXCR4 gene regulation may help diagnose endometriosis earlier and point toward non-hormonal treatments for the condition.
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.