How gut bacteria in HIV-exposed infants affect their growth and immunity

Influence of Early Life Gut Microbiota of HIV-Exposed Uninfected Infants on Inflammation, Growth and Immunity to Enteric Pathogens

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10898915

This study is looking at how the bacteria in the gut of infants who are exposed to HIV but not infected can affect their health, especially regarding inflammation and growth, to find ways to help these babies grow up healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10898915 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of gut microbiota on the health of infants who are exposed to HIV but are not infected. It focuses on understanding how these infants experience increased inflammation and immune challenges, which may lead to growth issues like stunting. By analyzing the gut bacteria composition in these infants, the study aims to uncover potential links between gut health and immune responses to infections. The findings could help develop strategies to improve health outcomes for these vulnerable infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants under 11 years old who are HIV-exposed but uninfected.

Not a fit: Patients who are HIV-infected or older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health interventions for HIV-exposed infants, enhancing their growth and immune function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of gut microbiota in immune health, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.