How gut bacteria and infections affect child growth in different environments
Gut microbiome, enteric infections and child growth across a rurual urban gradient
This study is looking at how the bacteria in kids' tummies and infections affect their growth and health during their first two years, especially to find out why some little ones get sick while others stay healthy, and it's being done with families in Ecuador.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10541904 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiome and enteric infections impact the growth and health of children, particularly in their first two years of life. By studying a cohort of 360 newborns in Ecuador, the research aims to understand why some children experience symptoms from infections while others do not. The study will analyze the relationship between gut bacteria and the body's response to infections, focusing on both acute and chronic health outcomes. This community-based approach allows for a detailed examination of how environmental factors influence child health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborn infants, particularly those living in rural or urban settings in northern coastal Ecuador.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than two years or those not residing in the study areas may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing growth faltering and other health issues in children caused by enteric infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the gut microbiome in health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levy, Karen — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Levy, Karen
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.