Investigating how Schwann cells can help repair the enteric nervous system
Official title: Schwann Cell-derived neuro-gliogenesis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11099949 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells that usually help repair nerves can move into the gut and turn into new nerve cells to help heal after injury, and it’s exploring ways to boost this process to improve gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $668,711 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134561-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099949 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders related to enteric nervous system injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-gastrointestinal conditions or those whose disorders are not related to the enteric nervous system may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the enteric nervous system (ENS), which controls important functions in the gut. It explores how Schwann cells, which are typically involved in nerve repair, can migrate into the gut and differentiate into neurons and glial cells to aid in recovery after injury. The study utilizes animal models to understand the mechanisms behind this process and the role of the serotonin 5HT4 pathway in enhancing Schwann cell activity. By manipulating the gut microbiome, the research aims to promote the regeneration of the ENS and improve gut function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for debilitating gut disorders caused by ENS injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using Schwann cells for nerve repair, indicating potential success for this approach in the context of the enteric nervous system.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Belkind-Gerson, Jaime — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Belkind-Gerson, Jaime
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.