How human milk oligosaccharides help protect the gut and reduce inflammation
Official title: Mechanisms by which human milk-derived oligosaccharides protect intestinal barrier and attenuate inflammation
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11088883 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain sugars in human milk, especially one called 2’-fucosyllactose, can help protect the gut and keep it healthy, which could be really helpful for both babies and adults dealing with gut issues like inflammatory bowel disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $561,164 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136893-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088883 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases or those experiencing complications from chemotherapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact intestinal barriers and no history of gut-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the protective effects of oligosaccharides found in human milk on the intestinal barrier, which is crucial for preventing diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and mucositis. The study focuses on understanding how these oligosaccharides, particularly 2’-fucosyllactose, function at a biological level to support gut health in both infants and adults. By exploring the mechanisms through which these compounds promote beneficial gut bacteria and protect against intestinal injury, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic applications for patients suffering from gut-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance gut health and reduce inflammation for patients with intestinal disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the benefits of human milk oligosaccharides in gut health, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Fang — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Yan, Fang
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.