NIH-funded research Career grant

How gut bacteria affect lung health and disease

Official title: Impact of gut bacterial metabolites on lung function and disease

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11009069 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect your lung health, especially during issues like COVID-19, by exploring how certain gut bacteria can influence lung injury and breathing problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2023
Project endJanuary 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$169,020
NIH project number5K08HL165106-03
Project IDNIH-11009069 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing acute lung injury or respiratory distress, particularly those affected by COVID-19.

Less likely to help

Patients with chronic lung diseases unrelated to acute lung injury may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between gut bacteria and lung function, particularly focusing on how certain gut bacterial metabolites may influence acute lung injury and respiratory distress. The study aims to understand the role of specific gut bacteria, like Bifidobacterium adolescentis, in activating immune responses that can lead to lung damage. By examining the effects of these bacteria and their metabolites on lung tissue, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the mechanisms behind lung diseases, especially in the context of conditions like COVID-19.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating acute lung injuries and respiratory distress syndromes.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's role in lung health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Upadhyay, Vaibhav — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Upadhyay, Vaibhav

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.