How stress hormones affect harmful bacteria in the gut

Quorum Sensing Regulation of EHEC Virulence Genes

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11000282

This study is looking at how stress hormones in your body might affect harmful bacteria in your gut, which could help us learn more about keeping your gut healthy and preventing diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000282 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of stress hormones, specifically epinephrine and norepinephrine, in regulating the virulence of enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) in the gut. By examining how these neurotransmitters interact with gut microbiota, the study aims to understand the balance between harmful pathogens and the body's defense mechanisms. The approach includes assessing how the microbiota influences the availability of these hormones, potentially leading to new insights into gut health and disease prevention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years, particularly those under 2 years old who may be at higher risk for EHEC infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without a history of EHEC infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating infections caused by EHEC in young children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of microbiota in pathogen interactions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.