Improving muscle function for better control of bowel movements
Official title: Mechanisms of Improving Fecal Continence Muscles Motor Function in Health and Disease
Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11050008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to help adults with bowel control issues by strengthening the muscles that help keep things in check, so if you're dealing with fecal incontinence, this research might lead to better treatment options for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $460,963 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK139030-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050008 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults of all ages, particularly women and the elderly, who experience fecal incontinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fecal incontinence due to non-muscular causes or those who are not able to participate in physical assessments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance the motor function of muscles responsible for fecal continence, aiming to reduce fecal incontinence in adults. It focuses on understanding the fatigue characteristics of these muscles and developing methods to improve their strength and endurance. By utilizing innovative tools and techniques, the study seeks to measure muscle performance and identify effective rehabilitation strategies. Patients may participate in assessments that could lead to improved treatment options for bowel control issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from fecal incontinence by enhancing muscle function and reducing incontinence episodes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving muscle function for similar conditions, indicating that this approach may lead to meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mei, Ling — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Mei, Ling
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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.