How gut cells defend against harmful microbes

Epithelial intrinsic inflammasomes direct host defense against gut microbes

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE · NIH-10801424

This study is looking at how certain cells in your gut help keep you safe from infections caused by bad germs, like Salmonella, and it aims to find ways to improve gut health and better protect people, especially kids, from these kinds of illnesses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10801424 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) in protecting the gut from infections caused by harmful microbes. It focuses on how these cells use specialized structures called inflammasomes to trigger immune responses that help fight off pathogens like Salmonella. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to improve our knowledge of gut health and how to better manage enteric infections, which can lead to serious health issues, especially in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals, particularly children, who are at risk for enteric infections or suffer from related gastrointestinal issues.

Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious gastrointestinal disorders or those not affected by enteric pathogens may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating enteric infections, reducing morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of inflammasomes in immune responses, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in understanding gut health.

Where this research is happening

BURLINGTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.