Exploring how gut microbes affect brain function in neurodevelopmental disorders

Unraveling gut-microbiome-brain interactions in neurodevelopmental disorders

['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10894073

This study is looking at how a specific gut microbe, L. reuteri, might affect brain function and social behavior in mice with neurodevelopmental disorders, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with these conditions feel and interact better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10894073 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between gut microbes and brain function, particularly in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). By using advanced techniques such as transcriptomics and metabolomics, the study aims to understand how a specific gut microbe, L. reuteri, can influence social behavior and brain activity in mouse models of NDDs. The researchers will explore the mechanisms behind this gut-brain communication and assess the potential for developing new microbial-based therapies that could improve social functioning in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders who experience social deficits.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders who do not exhibit social dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative, non-invasive treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders that improve social behaviors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain axis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and potential breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: CNS Diseases, CNS disorder, Candidate Disease Gene

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.