Investigating how gut bacteria affect brain function in liver disease
The role of the microbiome in hepatic encephalopathy pathogenesis and treatment
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11166551
This study is looking at how gut bacteria might affect brain function in people with liver disease, specifically those with and without symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy, to find new ways to help improve their health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11166551 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of gut bacteria in hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a serious complication of liver disease that affects cognitive and motor functions. The study will involve enrolling 150 patients with cirrhosis, half of whom have experienced HE and half who are at high risk but have not yet shown symptoms. Researchers will collect data on both the patients' gut microbiomes and their overall health to identify potential new treatments targeting these bacteria. By exploring how gut bacteria influence brain function in liver disease, the research aims to develop more effective therapies for HE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cirrhosis, particularly those with a history of hepatic encephalopathy or those at high risk for developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with liver disease who do not have cirrhosis or those without any risk factors for hepatic encephalopathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from hepatic encephalopathy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the microbiome for various health conditions, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial for hepatic encephalopathy as well.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BLOOM, PATRICIA PRINGLE — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: BLOOM, PATRICIA PRINGLE
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.