Investigating a protein that may help reduce inflammation in a severe intestinal condition in infants.
Official title: Inter-alpha Inhibitors in Experimental Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Funded at Prothera Biologics, LLC · NIH-11255387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called inter-alpha inhibitor proteins (IAIP) might help reduce inflammation in the intestines of premature babies with a serious condition called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), with the hope of finding better treatments to help these little ones recover.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Prothera Biologics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $50,184 |
| NIH project number | 3R43HD114348-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11255387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or do not have necrotizing enterocolitis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious inflammatory condition affecting the intestines of premature infants. The study aims to explore the role of inter-alpha inhibitor proteins (IAIP) in modulating the inflammatory response associated with NEC. By understanding how IAIP can potentially protect against inflammation and tissue damage, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for affected infants. The approach involves analyzing the levels of IAIP in patients and their correlation with disease severity and outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting inflammatory responses in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
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Prothera Biologics, LLC
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Yow-Pin — Prothera Biologics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Lim, Yow-Pin
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Rapid, at-a-glance test to guide newborn infection therapy
A quick blood test using IAIP levels to help decide early on whether a newborn is at risk for sepsis or NEC and should continue or adjust antibiotics.
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A rapid test to identify risk of infections in newborns
This study is working on a fast test that checks for a specific protein in the blood to help doctors quickly find out if newborns are at risk for serious infections like sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis, so they can start treatment right away.
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Investigating a protein that may help treat a severe intestinal condition in newborns
This study is looking at how a special protein might help reduce inflammation in the intestines of premature babies with a serious condition called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), with the hope of finding better treatments to improve their health and survival.
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.