Investigating how gut protists affect celiac disease

Role of gut protists in celiac disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11005737

This study is looking at how tiny organisms in the gut might affect celiac disease, which happens when the body reacts poorly to gluten, and it aims to find new ways to help people with this condition feel better by understanding how these organisms interact with the immune system.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11005737 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of gut protists in the development and progression of celiac disease, a condition triggered by abnormal immune responses to gluten. The study focuses on understanding how these protists interact with immune cells in the gut, particularly in individuals with genetic predispositions to celiac disease. By examining the immune mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies to restore oral tolerance to gluten. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help elucidate these interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with celiac disease, particularly those with the HLA DQ2 or DQ8 genetic markers.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have celiac disease or those without the relevant genetic predispositions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help patients with celiac disease manage their condition more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune mechanisms of celiac disease, but the specific role of gut protists is still being explored and represents a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.