Investigating how gut bacteria interact with Clostridioides difficile infections

High-resolution genomic interrogation of pathogen-microbiome interactions in Clostridioides difficile infection

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11093474

This study is looking at how a harmful germ called Clostridioides difficile interacts with the good bacteria in the gut of people who have infections, to help find out why some people get sicker than others and to improve treatments for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11093474 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the interactions between Clostridioides difficile, a harmful bacterium, and the gut microbiome in patients suffering from infections. By analyzing stool samples from over 30,000 patients, the study aims to uncover the genetic factors that influence the severity of these infections and the role of the gut microbiome in either exacerbating or mitigating the disease. The approach involves high-resolution genomic analysis to identify specific genetic elements associated with different outcomes of Clostridioides difficile infections. This could lead to better-targeted treatments and improved patient care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been diagnosed with Clostridioides difficile infections or are at risk of developing them.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Clostridioides difficile infections or related gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Clostridioides difficile infections, reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding pathogen-microbiome interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.