Preventing infections in premature infants by targeting gut bacteria
Targeting the Intestinal Mucosa and Microbiome to Prevent Neonatal Late-onset Sepsis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-10886691
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the gut can help protect premature babies from a serious infection called late-onset sepsis, and it’s testing whether giving them certain probiotics can keep their gut healthy and reduce the risk of this infection.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10886691 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the gut microbiome affects the risk of late-onset sepsis (LOS) in premature infants. By studying a new animal model, researchers aim to identify specific bacteria that can help prevent dysbiosis, a condition where the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted. The study explores the use of probiotics, particularly certain strains of Ligilactobacillus, to restore healthy gut flora and improve the intestinal environment, potentially reducing the incidence of LOS. The findings could lead to new preventive strategies for vulnerable infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at high risk for late-onset sepsis due to an imbalance in their gut microbiome.
Not a fit: Patients who are full-term infants or those who do not have issues related to gut microbiome dysbiosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the rates of late-onset sepsis in premature infants, improving their health outcomes and survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using probiotics to manage gut health in infants, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEAVER, CASEY T — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: WEAVER, CASEY T
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.