How beta7 integrin controls gut bacteria that trigger IBD
Control by Beta 7 integrins of the bacterial triggers of IBD
This work looks at whether the beta7 integrin changes gut B cells, IgA antibodies, and gut bacteria that can trigger inflammatory bowel disease patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11264942 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use mouse models that mimic Crohn’s-like ileitis and colitis and remove or block the beta7 integrin to see how that changes B cell movement, IgA-producing cells, and gut inflammation. They compare normal and beta7-deficient mice and use an antibody that blocks the beta7 pathway to replicate the effect of drugs like vedolizumab. The team measures lamina propria B cells, IgA levels, bacterial communities, and disease severity, and transfers fecal microbiota between mice to test whether altered microbes cause or worsen colitis. Results are meant to explain how beta7-targeting therapies influence gut immunity and microbes in IBD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, especially those taking or considering integrin-targeting therapies like vedolizumab, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Individuals without inflammatory bowel disease or with symptoms unrelated to gut immune responses are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could explain why some integrin-blocking drugs change gut antibodies and microbes and help guide safer or more effective IBD treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Clinical observations have shown vedolizumab can lower secretory IgA and weaken oral vaccine responses, but linking beta7-related B cell and microbiota changes to worsened IBD is a newer area of study.
Where this research is happening
San Diego, United States
- VA San Diego Healthcare System — San Diego, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rivera-Nieves, Jesus — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Rivera-Nieves, Jesus
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.