Investigating how certain fats affect gut health and metabolism
Official title: Role of Myristate and Sphingolipids on Intestinal ER Stress and Lipid Metabolism
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11070585 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in our diet affect gut health and may contribute to inflammation in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), using samples from patients to better understand this connection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK142470-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070585 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease or other gastrointestinal disorders related to lipid metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any gastrointestinal issues or those not consuming high saturated fat diets may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of specific dietary saturated fatty acids on the metabolism of sphingolipids and their role in gut health. It focuses on understanding how these fatty acids contribute to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammation in the intestines, particularly in relation to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). By analyzing biopsy samples from patients, the study aims to uncover the relationship between fatty acid intake, sphingolipid metabolism, and intestinal health. The research employs biochemical techniques to assess the activity of enzymes involved in lipid metabolism and ER stress pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or therapies for patients with intestinal disorders, improving their overall gut health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dietary fats in gut health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doll, Chelsea Louise — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Doll, Chelsea Louise
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.