How alcohol can worsen ulcerative colitis through gut inflammation and bacteria
IL-22-STAT3-Nos2 axis in alcohol-mediated exacerbation of UC pathology
['FUNDING_R21'] · LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO · NIH-11175274
This project looks at whether drinking alcohol makes ulcerative colitis worse by altering gut bacteria and immune signals in the colon.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11175274 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You will learn how alcohol changes the mix of gut bacteria and increases an inflammatory enzyme called Nos2 that can damage the colon. The team uses a lab model of colitis (mice given DSS) plus episodes of alcohol exposure to track bacteria, Nos2 levels, and the protective IL-22/STAT3 immune signal. They compare these findings to observations from people with ulcerative colitis who report alcohol use and more gut infections. The goal is to connect the biological changes to worse symptoms and more infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, especially those who drink alcohol or have recurrent gut infections, would be the most relevant group.
Not a fit: People without ulcerative colitis or those who do not consume alcohol are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to ways to reduce alcohol-related flares and infections in people with ulcerative colitis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research shows IL-22/STAT3 helps protect the gut and that Nos2 can worsen inflammation, but applying this pathway specifically to alcohol-driven UC is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES
- LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO — MAYWOOD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHOUDHRY, MASHKOOR A — LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: CHOUDHRY, MASHKOOR A
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.