Investigating how gut bacteria affect a rare genetic bone disease
the Gut Microbiome as a Disease Modifier of Heterotopic Ossification
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect inflammation and bone growth in people with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), and it will test if adding probiotics to the diet can help slow down the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090365 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), a rare genetic condition where muscle repair leads to abnormal bone growth. The study aims to understand how the gut microbiome influences inflammation and the progression of this disease in specially designed mouse models. Researchers will explore whether dietary changes, such as adding probiotics, can help slow down the disease. Additionally, the project will examine the relationship between gut bacteria and immune cell behavior in both mice and human patients with FOP.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of bone disorders unrelated to FOP may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary or probiotic treatments that help manage or slow the progression of FOP.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting the gut microbiome in FOP is novel, similar studies have shown promising results in other inflammatory and bone-related conditions.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perrien, Daniel S — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Perrien, Daniel S
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.