How gut bacteria affect intestinal barrier function and inflammation
Official title: Impact of dysbiotic and symbiotic catabolism of luminal amino acids on intestinal epithelial barrier function and inflammation
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10912096 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how good and bad bacteria in your gut affect the health of your intestines and inflammation, specifically for people with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis, to find new ways to help improve gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $375,080 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DK136728-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10912096 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-inflammatory bowel conditions or those without gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut bacteria and their metabolic products in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier and managing inflammation in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The study aims to understand how specific beneficial bacteria can enhance the function of intercellular junctions that protect the gut lining, while also exploring how harmful bacteria disrupt these processes. By examining the interactions between gut microbiota and epithelial cells, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving gut health and reducing inflammation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore gut barrier function and alleviate symptoms for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in intestinal health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alam, M. Ashfaqul — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Alam, M. Ashfaqul
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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.