How the body's endocannabinoid system affects gut infections
Official title: Effects of host endocannabinoid signaling on Enterobacteriaceae infection
Funded at University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-11109609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the body's natural endocannabinoid system affects the growth of bad bacteria in the gut, like E. coli, and it could help us find new ways to improve gut health for people with conditions like Crohn's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project start | June 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $608,496 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI184916-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic gastrointestinal diseases, particularly those with Crohn's disease or similar conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute gastrointestinal infections not related to chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the endocannabinoid system in the body influences the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, particularly focusing on E. coli and related pathogens. By using mouse models and advanced genetic and metabolic techniques, the study aims to understand how this signaling system can lower the gut's defenses against these bacteria. The findings could reveal new insights into the relationship between gut health and chronic diseases like Crohn's disease, potentially leading to new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance gut health and prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the microbiome and host signaling in gut health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Carolina at Columbia
Columbia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ellermann, Melissa — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Ellermann, Melissa
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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.