How Vitamin A affects gut health and immunity through gut bacteria

Vitamin A metabolism at the host-microbiome interface

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-10999776

This study is looking at how Vitamin A and gut bacteria work together to keep our intestines healthy and how this might help people with conditions like colitis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10999776 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Vitamin A metabolism in the gut and its interaction with gut bacteria. It focuses on how Vitamin A, particularly its metabolite retinoic acid, influences immune responses and the health of the intestinal barrier. By using mouse models, the study examines how gut bacteria regulate the processing of dietary Vitamin A and its implications for conditions like colitis. The findings aim to enhance our understanding of gut health and the potential for dietary interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gut health issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease or colitis, who may benefit from dietary interventions involving Vitamin A.

Not a fit: Patients without any gastrointestinal issues or those not interested in dietary changes may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary strategies for improving gut health and managing immune-related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut microbiome's role in nutrient metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.