Investigating early life environmental factors that may cause eosinophilic esophagitis

Epidemiologic identification and mechanistic investigation of early life environmental risk factors for eosinophilic esophagitis

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11006282

This study is looking at how things in a child's early life, like antibiotic use, might affect their chances of developing eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus, by examining samples from baby teeth to find out more about these early exposures.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11006282 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how early life environmental factors contribute to the development of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a condition characterized by inflammation in the esophagus. By analyzing samples from baby teeth, the study aims to identify specific exposures, such as antibiotic use, that may increase the risk of EoE. The research employs innovative methodologies to gather precise data on these early life exposures, which have not been thoroughly studied before. This could lead to a better understanding of the condition and inform prevention strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults who have been diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis or are at risk for developing the condition.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have eosinophilic esophagitis or are not at risk for the condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and management strategies for eosinophilic esophagitis in children and adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying environmental factors related to immune-mediated diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.