Exploring how gut-derived oxytocin affects social behavior and gut inflammation.
Official title: Investigating the role of intestinal-derived oxytocin in social behavior and gut inflammation.
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11061377 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the health of your gut might affect social behaviors, especially in people with autism, by exploring how a specific gut bacteria could help improve social skills and reduce inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD114927-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061377 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who also experience gastrointestinal issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or significant gastrointestinal problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between gut health and social behavior, particularly focusing on how oxytocin produced in the intestines may influence conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gut inflammation. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which gut microbes, specifically Limosilactobacillus reuteri, can improve social behaviors and reduce inflammation in both animal models and humans. By examining the gut-brain axis, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance treatment options for individuals with ASD and related gastrointestinal issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve social behaviors and reduce gut inflammation in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using gut microbes like Limosilactobacillus reuteri to improve social behavior in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Britton, Robert a — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Britton, Robert a
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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.