Investigating the link between gut bacteria and arthritis

Studies on gut microbiome-joint connections in arthritis

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11075787

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect inflammation and joint problems if you have osteoarthritis related to obesity, and it will test whether adding certain foods or supplements can help improve your gut health and reduce your arthritis symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11075787 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how changes in gut microbiome may contribute to inflammation and joint degeneration in patients with obesity-related osteoarthritis. By examining the relationship between gut bacteria and inflammatory responses in the body, the study aims to identify potential dietary interventions that could restore healthy gut bacteria and reduce inflammation. The approach includes dietary supplementation with prebiotic fibers and probiotics to correct dysbiosis and assess their effects on joint health. Patients may be involved in trials assessing the impact of these interventions on their arthritis symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity-related osteoarthritis who may benefit from dietary interventions targeting gut health.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity or those with non-inflammatory forms of arthritis may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary treatments that alleviate arthritis symptoms and improve joint health for patients with obesity-related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary interventions to modify gut microbiome and reduce inflammation, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.