Investigating how short-chain fatty acids affect eye health in premature infants
Short-chain fatty acid signaling in retinopathy of prematurity
This study is looking at how a substance called butyrate, found in certain foods, might help prevent a serious eye problem in premature babies, and it aims to find a new, gentle treatment to support their eye health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11170133 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of short-chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate, in preventing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness in premature infants. The study aims to identify the mechanisms by which these fatty acids influence retinal development and vascularization in infants exposed to high oxygen levels and hyperglycemia. By using mouse models and analyzing gut bacteria, the researchers hope to develop a new, non-invasive therapy that could improve outcomes for affected infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants at risk of developing retinopathy of prematurity due to factors like high oxygen exposure and hyperglycemia.
Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel therapy that prevents blindness in premature infants by promoting healthy retinal development.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating that targeting gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acids may be effective in treating ROP.
Where this research is happening
Augusta, United States
- Augusta University — Augusta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jadeja, Ravirajsinh — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Jadeja, Ravirajsinh
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.