Investigating how a specific environmental sensor affects colitis
Role of the environmental sensor, AhR on colitis
This study is looking at how certain compounds in our diet, like indole-3-carbinol, can help improve gut health and reduce inflammation in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by affecting gut bacteria and the body's natural defenses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892150 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), an environmental sensor that interacts with various compounds, in the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study aims to understand how dietary indoles, particularly indole-3-carbinol (I3C), can influence gut health by regulating gene expression and promoting anti-inflammatory responses. Researchers will examine the effects of these compounds on gut microbiota and the expression of antimicrobial peptides in patients with colitis. By using animal models, the study seeks to uncover potential therapeutic pathways that could lead to improved treatments for IBD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those experiencing chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease or those not experiencing gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions that help manage or alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that dietary compounds can have significant effects on gut health and inflammation.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nagarkatti, Prakash S — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Nagarkatti, Prakash S
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.