Investigating how certain gut bacteria affect symptoms in Crohn's disease

The role of sulfidogenic microbes in quiescent Crohn’s disease with persistent symptoms

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11060982

This study is looking at how certain gut bacteria might be causing ongoing symptoms in people with Crohn's disease, even when there’s no inflammation, and it invites patients to help by sharing samples and information to find new ways to improve their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060982 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of specific gut microbes, particularly sulfidogenic bacteria, in patients with Crohn's disease who experience persistent symptoms despite having no active inflammation. The study aims to explore how these bacteria and their metabolic byproducts, such as hydrogen sulfide, may contribute to symptoms like increased intestinal permeability and visceral hypersensitivity. By analyzing gut microbiota and their interactions with the host, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms behind these persistent symptoms and identify new therapeutic targets. Patients may be involved in providing samples and data to help elucidate these relationships.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease who experience ongoing symptoms even when their disease is in remission.

Not a fit: Patients with Crohn's disease who do not experience persistent symptoms or those with active inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from persistent symptoms of Crohn's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of gut microbiota in Crohn's disease is being explored, this specific focus on sulfidogenic bacteria and their metabolic pathways is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.