Investigating the role of Rho kinases in newborn intestinal diseases.
Official title: ROCK, tight junctions and prematurity in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis and neonatal sepsis.
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11013346 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins affect the intestines of newborns with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious condition, to find new ways to help protect their intestines and keep them healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $434,040 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK133207-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013346 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants or newborns at risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis or neonatal sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not newborns or those who do not have risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis or neonatal sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe condition affecting newborns that can lead to sepsis and death. The study examines how Rho-associated protein kinases (ROCK) influence the function of tight junctions in the intestines, which are crucial for maintaining a barrier against harmful bacteria. By exploring the mechanisms behind intestinal barrier injury and the regulation of cell death, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat these life-threatening conditions in neonates.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and neonatal sepsis, improving survival rates for newborns.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting similar pathways in other conditions has led to promising therapeutic advancements, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunter, Catherine Jane — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hunter, Catherine Jane
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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.