Investigating gut microbes in families with Crohn's disease
The Study of Families with Heritable Crohn's Disease to Support Rational Design of Microbiodata-Based Therapies
This study is looking at how genes and gut bacteria work together in families with Crohn's disease to find helpful microbes that might protect people at risk from getting the disease, and it involves collecting poop samples to test in mice for potential new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10763778 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between genetic factors and gut microbiomes in families affected by Crohn's disease. By studying families with multiple members diagnosed with the condition, the researchers aim to identify specific gut microbial signatures that may protect individuals at high genetic risk from developing the disease. The study involves collecting fecal samples to analyze the microbiome and testing these samples in a mouse model to see if transferring protective microbes can prevent or delay Crohn's disease. This approach seeks to uncover modifiable factors that could lead to new therapies for Crohn's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals from families with a history of Crohn's disease, particularly those who are genetically at high risk but have not yet developed the condition.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a family history of Crohn's disease or those who have already been diagnosed with the condition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new microbiome-based therapies that prevent or mitigate Crohn's disease in genetically predisposed individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of gut microbiomes in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although it remains a relatively novel area of investigation for Crohn's disease.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Lea a — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Chen, Lea a
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 below.