Investigating the role of gut health in treating ALS

Microbiome and intestinal barrier in ALS therapy

NIH-funded research Jesse Brown VA Medical Center · NIH-11046270

This study is looking at how the health of your gut might influence the progression of ALS, especially in veterans, to find new ways to improve gut health and help with ALS symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJesse Brown VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046270 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how the gut microbiome and intestinal function affect patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It aims to understand the connection between gut health and the progression of ALS, particularly in veterans who are at higher risk for the disease. By examining the gut-neuron-microbial axis, the study seeks to identify potential treatments that could restore gut health and improve neurological function. The research utilizes both animal models and human samples to investigate the effects of gut microbiome alterations on ALS symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, particularly veterans.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders unrelated to ALS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve the quality of life and slow the progression of ALS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's role in neurological diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.