Gut nerve problems linked to digestive symptoms in Down syndrome
Defining the Role of Enteric Nervous System Dysfunction in Gastrointestinal Motor and Sensory Abnormalities in Down Syndrome
This work looks at whether damage to the gut's nervous system causes constipation, reflux, and other bowel problems in people with Down syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877211 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team will examine the nerves that control digestion to understand why people with Down syndrome often have chronic constipation and other gut symptoms. They will compare nerve cell numbers and gut function in mouse models that mimic Down syndrome and in human tissue or samples where available. The researchers will measure how the gut secretes fluid and how leaky the gut lining is, and relate those findings to symptoms like slow transit and reflux. The goal is to pinpoint nerve-related causes that could be targeted in future treatments or care approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Down syndrome who experience chronic constipation, slow bowel movements, reflux, or other gastrointestinal motility or sensory problems would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without Down syndrome or those whose symptoms are caused only by structural issues, infections, or diet may not benefit directly from this nerve-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat or manage constipation and other gastrointestinal problems common in people with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown fewer enteric neurons and links between nerve damage and motility problems, but applying these findings specifically to Down syndrome is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Belkind-Gerson, Jaime — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Belkind-Gerson, Jaime
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 below.