Investigating the role of urinary bacteria and inflammation in bladder symptoms
Official title: The Urinary Microbiota and Host Inflammation in Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10689024 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the tiny germs in your urinary system might be linked to issues like needing to go to the bathroom often, feeling an urgent need to go, or experiencing pain when you urinate, and it aims to find better ways to help people with these symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $167,832 |
| NIH project number | 5K08DK118176-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10689024 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic lower urinary tract symptoms, such as urinary urgency and frequency.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without lower urinary tract symptoms or those with other unrelated urinary conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how changes in the urinary microbiota may contribute to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as urgency, frequency, and painful urination. By utilizing advanced DNA sequencing techniques, the study aims to identify the specific bacteria and fungi present in the urinary tract of patients experiencing these symptoms. The researchers will examine how these microbial communities interact with the host's immune system and contribute to inflammation, potentially leading to a better understanding of LUTS and improved treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from debilitating urinary symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of microbiota in various health conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ackerman, a. Lenore — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Ackerman, a. Lenore
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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.