Investigating how genetic and environmental factors contribute to a serious intestinal disease in premature infants.
Gene-environment interactions in necrotizing enterocolitis: impact of SIGIRR mutation and gut microbiota on intestinal TLR hyperactivity
This study is looking at how a certain genetic change and the bacteria in the gut work together to affect the immune system in premature babies with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), with the hope of finding better ways to prevent and treat this serious condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884331 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe inflammatory bowel condition affecting premature infants. It aims to understand how a specific genetic mutation and the gut microbiome interact to influence immune responses in the intestines. By using a novel mouse model that mimics a mutation found in infants with NEC, researchers will explore how these factors contribute to the disease's development. The study seeks to provide insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for NEC in vulnerable infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk for developing necrotizing enterocolitis.
Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have a risk of necrotizing enterocolitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of necrotizing enterocolitis, potentially reducing its incidence and severity in premature infants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic and microbiome interactions in other inflammatory diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cuna, Alain — Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo)
- Study coordinator: Cuna, Alain
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 below.