Investigating how certain fatty acids protect the gut barrier
Official title: Role of epoxy fatty acids - soluble epoxide hydrolase axis in intestinal mucosal barrier defense
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11017730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fatty acids can help keep your gut lining healthy and exploring new ways to protect it from inflammation and toxins, which could lead to better treatments for gut health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $565,079 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK137885-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017730 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from gastrointestinal conditions that involve mucosal barrier dysfunction, such as inflammatory bowel disease or those affected by NSAID-induced damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact gastrointestinal barriers and no history of inflammatory bowel disease or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific fatty acid metabolites in maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal barrier. It explores how these metabolites, derived from cytochrome P450 enzymes, can be used to develop new therapies to prevent damage to the gut lining caused by inflammation or toxins. The study involves testing novel inhibitors that can enhance the protective effects of these fatty acids, potentially leading to improved treatments for conditions that compromise gut health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that strengthen the gut barrier and reduce inflammation, benefiting patients with gastrointestinal disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting fatty acid metabolism and gut health, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Guang-Yu — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Yang, Guang-Yu
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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.