How processed diets and gut bacteria affect inflammatory bowel disease

Interplay of processed diet, gut microbiota, and interferon-linked mucosal immunity in the onset and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11083565

This study is looking at how eating a lot of processed foods might affect gut bacteria and the immune system, which could increase the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it aims to find ways to improve diets to help prevent or reduce IBD.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083565 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between processed diets, gut microbiota, and the immune response in the intestines, particularly focusing on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It aims to understand how a diet high in ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of IBD by affecting gut bacteria and immune function. The study will explore the mechanisms behind these effects and seek to develop dietary interventions that could help reduce the onset and prevalence of IBD. By using animal models, researchers will examine changes in gut bacteria and immune responses related to diet.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or currently suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those with dietary habits high in processed foods.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume processed diets or those with other unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help prevent or manage inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary factors significantly influence gut health and inflammation, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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.
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.