Modeling complex microbial systems to understand enteric infections in children
Statistical and agent-based modeling of complex microbial systems: a means for..
This study looks at how things like living conditions and community resources affect the spread of stomach infections in kids living in low-income neighborhoods in Kenya, with the hope of finding ways to improve health and reduce these infections through better sanitation and living environments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179602 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how different environmental and societal factors influence the transmission of enteric infections among children in low-income urban areas of Kenya. By using statistical and agent-based modeling, the study aims to analyze the complex interactions between various pathogens and their transmission pathways. The goal is to identify how improvements in societal development, such as better sanitation and living conditions, can reduce the complexity of these microbial communities and ultimately lower infection rates. The findings could help in designing effective public health interventions tailored to specific community needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years living in low-income urban neighborhoods, particularly in regions with high rates of enteric infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in high-burden areas or those who are not within the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted strategies that significantly reduce diarrheal diseases in children, improving their health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the dynamics of microbial communities can lead to successful interventions in public health, indicating that this approach has potential for impactful outcomes.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sewell, Daniel — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Sewell, Daniel
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 below.