How certain protists affect immune responses in the gut.
Impact of symbiotic protists on intestinal T cell homeostasis and inflammation.
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11042733
This study is looking at tiny organisms in your gut to see how they affect your immune system, especially how they can cause different types of immune reactions, which could help us understand conditions like Crohn's disease better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11042733 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific protists in the gut microbiome and their influence on the immune system, particularly focusing on how they can induce different immune responses. The researchers will isolate two species of protists that trigger either a Th1 or Th2 immune response and analyze their genetic makeup and the metabolites they produce. By understanding these interactions, the study aims to clarify how these protists contribute to immune balance and inflammation in the intestines, which could have implications for conditions like Crohn's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease, who may benefit from improved immune regulation.
Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders or those without any gut-related issues may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing inflammatory bowel diseases by harnessing the beneficial effects of specific gut protists.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of bacteria in the gut microbiome has been extensively studied, the investigation of protists is relatively novel, suggesting this research could pave the way for new insights in the field.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOWITT, MICHAEL R — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: HOWITT, MICHAEL R
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.