How certain bacteria in our gut help protect against infections from our diet.

Commensal bacterial metabolism of dietary phytate in host defense

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11081803

This study is looking at how a nutrient called phytate, which is found in some foods, can help good gut bacteria boost our body's ability to fight off intestinal infections, especially in children, by exploring the connection between diet and gut health.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081803 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a nutrient called phytate, found in certain diets, can be metabolized by beneficial gut bacteria to enhance the body's defense against intestinal infections. By studying both mouse models and human intestines, the researchers aim to understand the relationship between diet, gut microbiota, and immune responses. The goal is to identify dietary strategies that could improve intestinal health and reduce the risk of infections in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who may be at risk for intestinal infections.

Not a fit: Patients with established chronic intestinal diseases or those who are not within the age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations that help prevent serious intestinal infections in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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.
Conditions bacteria infectionbacterial diseaseBacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.