How gut bacteria affect heart transplant success
Mechanisms of microbiome-driven cardiac allograft outcomes
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect the success of heart transplants, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these tiny organisms could help improve the chances of a transplanted heart lasting longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11067733 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the gut microbiome in influencing the outcomes of heart transplants. It aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria can lead to immune responses that affect the long-term success of transplanted hearts. Using a mouse model, the researchers will explore how specific bacteria can either promote or hinder graft survival by examining metabolic activities and immune responses. The findings could provide insights into new strategies for improving heart transplant outcomes through microbiome modulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone or are scheduled for heart transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved long-term survival rates for heart transplant patients by targeting gut bacteria to enhance graft acceptance.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using microbiome modulation to influence immune responses, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Bing — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Ma, Bing
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.