Investigating the role of viruses and gut bacteria in arthritis flares in children

Longitudinal characterization of the role of the mucosal virome and microbiome in juvenile idiopathic arthritis flares

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11056288

This study is looking at how certain viruses and bacteria in the gut might affect flare-ups of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in kids, hoping to find clues that could help manage these painful episodes better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056288 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the mucosal virome and microbiome may influence flares of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in children. By analyzing samples from young patients, the study aims to identify potential viral infections and gut bacteria that could trigger these painful episodes. The approach involves advanced genetic sequencing techniques to characterize the microbial communities present in affected children. This could lead to better management strategies for JIA flares.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, particularly those experiencing frequent disease flares.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of arthritis or those who do not have juvenile idiopathic arthritis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that reduce the frequency and severity of arthritis flares in children with JIA.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on JIA and viral infections, studies in adult rheumatoid arthritis have shown promising links between viral infections and disease flares, suggesting potential relevance for this research.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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 2026-06-10 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.