NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating early biomarkers of atopic diseases in children

Official title: Biomarkers of Atopy Beginning Early (BABE)

Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11075802 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how atopic dermatitis and food allergies develop in young kids, especially those in farming communities, by working with Old Order Mennonites who seem to have fewer allergies, and it will involve collecting samples to find out what helps protect against these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startApril 7, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$1,357,020
NIH project number5U19AI175113-03
Project IDNIH-11075802 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation are children under 11 years old, particularly those with a family history of atopic diseases or living in farming environments.

Less likely to help

Patients with established severe atopic diseases or those outside the targeted age range may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how atopic dermatitis and food allergies develop in young children, particularly those living in farming communities. By studying a group of Old Order Mennonites, who have lower rates of these conditions, the research aims to identify key factors such as skin barrier function, immune responses, and gut microbiome health that may protect against allergies. The study will involve collecting and analyzing biological samples over time to uncover the mechanisms behind these protective effects. Patients may be asked to participate in assessments and provide samples to help researchers gather valuable data.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating atopic diseases in children.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that farming lifestyles can reduce the risk of asthma and allergies, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Rochester
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Jarvinen-Seppo, Kirsi — University of Rochester
  • Study coordinator: Jarvinen-Seppo, Kirsi

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.