Investigating how aging affects gut bacteria and the risk of infections in nursing homes

Aging Microbiome, Immunosenescence, and risk of Multi-drug Resistant Organism Colonization and Infection in the Nursing Home

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10988308

This study is looking at how the bacteria in the gut of older adults living in nursing homes can affect their chances of getting infections from tough-to-treat germs, and it hopes to find ways to help keep them healthier.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10988308 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the aging microbiome influences the risk of colonization and infection by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in nursing home residents. It employs advanced techniques to measure the presence of these harmful bacteria and examines how changes in gut bacteria and immune function contribute to increased vulnerability in older adults. By studying these factors, the research aims to identify potential interventions to reduce the burden of MDROs in this high-risk population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults living in nursing homes who may be at risk for infections due to their age and health status.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or do not reside in nursing homes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms in nursing home residents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the microbiome can lead to significant advancements in managing infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, 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.
Conditions age associated diseaseage associated disorderage dependent diseaseage dependent disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.