Investigating how environmental factors affect colitis through a specific receptor

Role of the environmental sensor, AhR on colitis

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10900874

This study is looking at how a specific protein in your body, called the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, affects inflammation in the gut, especially for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and it explores whether a compound found in certain foods can help improve gut health and ease symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10900874 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in regulating inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study aims to understand how certain dietary compounds, specifically indole-3-carbinol (I3C), can influence the immune response and potentially alleviate symptoms of colitis. By examining the interactions between AhR ligands and gut microbiota, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new dietary interventions for managing IBD. Patients may benefit from insights into how their diet can impact their condition and overall gut health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, including conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel disease or those who do not have a history of gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with dietary interventions targeting the AhR pathway, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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 2026-06-15 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.