How farming lifestyles and gut bacteria affect allergies in children

Gut Microbial Factors in Farming Lifestyle and Allergic Sensitization

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11075810

This study is looking at how growing up on a farm might help protect kids from allergies by exploring the different bacteria in their guts, and it’s for parents who want to understand how their child's environment can affect their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075810 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between farming lifestyles, gut microbiomes, and the development of allergic diseases in children. It focuses on infants raised in farming communities, examining how their unique exposure to diverse bacteria may protect them from conditions like asthma, eczema, and food allergies. The study will analyze the gut bacteria and their byproducts to understand their role in immune system development and allergic sensitization. By comparing infants from farming backgrounds to those from urban areas, the research aims to uncover microbial mechanisms that could lead to better prevention strategies for atopic diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children, particularly those with a family history of allergies or those living in farming environments.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without any history of allergic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing allergic diseases in children by leveraging the protective effects of gut microbiomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that children raised in farming environments have lower rates of asthma and allergies, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.