Exploring the benefits of peptides from human milk for preterm infants' gut health
Official title: Defining bioactivities of peptides released from human milk proteins in the preterm infant intestine
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11170018 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special proteins in human milk can help the intestines of preterm babies grow healthier, by finding out which helpful substances are released during digestion and how they support gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $652,181 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD109193-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170018 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are receiving human milk, either from their mothers or as pasteurized donor milk.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not preterm infants or those who are not receiving human milk may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bioactive peptides released from human milk proteins can positively affect the intestines of preterm infants. By analyzing the specific peptides that emerge during digestion, the study aims to understand their roles in promoting gut health, including their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. The research will involve collecting and examining intestinal fluid from preterm infants to identify these beneficial peptides and their effects on gut physiology. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the growth and development of preterm infants through improved nutrition derived from human milk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional strategies that enhance gut health and overall development in preterm infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the benefits of human milk for infant health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scottoline, Brian — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Scottoline, Brian
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Screening and treatment of Chlamydia infection in pregnancy to help prevent preterm birth
This grant studies whether screening pregnant people for Chlamydia trachomatis and treating those who are positive can reduce the risk of preterm birth.
-
Preterm infant body composition and early-life health after NICU stay
This grant studies how body composition in very preterm babies relates to later brain development and risk of obesity or diabetes, with findings meant to improve care from NICU through early childhood.
-
Brain injury risk in preterm babies with heart disease and how surgery choices affect their brains
This project follows newborns with congenital heart disease born early to understand how their brains are affected and how different surgical approaches might influence outcomes.
-
Xylitol to Prevent Periodontal Disease and Preterm Birth in Pregnancy and Early Childhood
A safe, inexpensive chewable gum approach using xylitol is tested to help pregnant people reduce gum disease and lower the chance of preterm birth and related child health problems.
-
Screening and treatment for Chlamydia infection to help prevent preterm birth
A study in pregnant people will test whether screening for Chlamydia trachomatis and treating it during pregnancy can reduce the risk of babies being born too early.
-
PREEMIE PROGRESS: a family program to help parents of very preterm babies
A family-centered program that teaches parents how to care for very preterm infants, offers psychosocial support, and connects families with resources to address social needs.
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.