How antibiotics affect the gut bacteria and immune system in premature infants with infections

Antibiotic disruption of the gut microbiome and immune response in neonatal late-onset sepsis

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10886752

This study is looking at how antibiotics affect the gut bacteria and immune system of premature babies who might get infections, using a special mouse model to help understand the best ways to treat these little ones.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10886752 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of antibiotics on the gut microbiome and immune response in premature infants who are at risk for late-onset sepsis. The study utilizes a unique mouse model that mimics the infant gut environment, allowing researchers to observe how different antibiotic treatments affect gut bacteria and the body's immune response. By analyzing fecal samples from a large repository of hospitalized neonates, the research aims to identify specific combinations of antibiotics and gut bacteria that may lead to severe infections. The ultimate goal is to improve treatment strategies for vulnerable infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are receiving antibiotic treatment for infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or who do not require antibiotic treatment for infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better antibiotic treatment protocols that minimize harmful effects on the gut microbiome, potentially reducing the incidence of severe infections in premature infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the relationship between antibiotics and the microbiome can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.