Finding ways to prevent a serious intestinal condition in newborns.
Official title: Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11030750 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance in human milk called hyaluronan might help protect premature babies from a serious gut condition called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) by promoting healthier intestines, and it's designed for parents of newborns who are at risk for this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $409,350 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD109784-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030750 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants or those at high risk for developing necrotizing enterocolitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not newborns or who do not have risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe gastrointestinal condition affecting newborns, particularly those who are premature or fed formula. The study investigates the role of hyaluronan, a substance found in human milk, in promoting intestinal health and maturation in infants at risk for NEC. By administering a specific form of hyaluronan, researchers aim to enhance the development of intestinal cells and improve barrier functions, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of NEC. The research employs advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry to understand the underlying mechanisms involved.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis in vulnerable newborns, leading to better health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches using bioactive factors in human milk to enhance intestinal health in infants.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chaaban, Hala — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Chaaban, Hala
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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.