How dietary fiber affects immune cells in the intestines

Role of dietary fiber-microbiota Interactions in the development and function of small intestinal T cells

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11007383

This study is looking at how eating more fiber can change the bacteria in your gut and how that might help your immune system, especially for people with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11007383 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between dietary fiber and the gut microbiome, focusing on how these factors influence the development and function of T cells in the small intestine. By examining the interactions between fiber intake and gut bacteria, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could explain the impact of diet on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The research employs a combination of dietary interventions and microbiome analysis to understand how changes in fiber consumption can alter immune responses in the intestines. This could lead to new dietary strategies for managing IBD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel diseases or those who do not consume dietary fiber may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into dietary interventions that may help manage or prevent inflammatory bowel diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that dietary fiber can significantly influence gut health and immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.