Exploring how the gut microbiome affects surgical site infections
Official title: Surgical site infections and the microbiome: Understanding the pathogenesis of surgical site infections
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10876994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how the germs on our skin and in our gut might be linked to infections that can happen after surgery, and it's for anyone who wants to help find better ways to prevent these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174043-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgical procedures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those with non-gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between the microbiome and surgical site infections (SSIs), which are common hospital-acquired infections. It aims to understand whether bacteria causing SSIs originate from the skin or the gastrointestinal tract. By analyzing the diversity of microbial communities at surgical sites, the study seeks to identify potential predictors of SSIs and develop targeted interventions to prevent these infections. The approach includes measuring microbial diversity and its correlation with SSI development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing surgical site infections, ultimately reducing hospital stays and healthcare costs.
How similar studies have gone: There is emerging evidence suggesting that targeting the microbiome may effectively reduce surgical site infections, indicating a promising area of research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rickard, Jennifer L — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Rickard, Jennifer L
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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.