How circHIPK3 and HuR affect the aging gut’s protective lining
Roles of circHIPK3 and HuR in aging gut barrier function
Researchers are looking at whether two molecules, circHIPK3 and HuR, help keep the gut lining strong in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171717 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how the RNA-binding protein HuR and a circular RNA called circHIPK3 control gut epithelial cells as we age. Scientists will study cells and gut tissues in the lab and use experimental aging models to see how these molecules change mRNA regulation, cell survival, and repair after injury. The team will test whether altering these molecules improves barrier integrity and resistance to infection in aged tissues. Findings could point to ways to prevent gut leakiness that raises infection and sepsis risk in older patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults with frailty or those who are at higher risk of gut barrier breakdown after surgery, trauma, or critical illness would be the most relevant candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: Younger people without age-related gut problems or patients whose conditions are unrelated to intestinal barrier integrity are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to treatments or strategies that protect the intestinal barrier in older adults and reduce infections and organ failure after injury or surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical lab studies have shown that HuR and circHIPK3 can influence gut cell repair, but clinical benefits in people have not yet been demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiao, Lan — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Xiao, Lan
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.