Protecting gut mucus to prevent complications after allogeneic stem cell transplant
Mucin preserving strategies to reduce allo HCT toxicities
This project tests ways to protect the gut’s mucus layer to help people having allogeneic stem cell transplants have fewer gut complications and infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11196064 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
After donor (allogeneic) stem cell transplants, antibiotics and certain gut bacteria can erode the colon’s protective mucus and contribute to graft‑versus‑host disease (GVHD), neutropenic fever, and infections. Researchers will analyze stool and tissue samples from transplant patients and run laboratory and mouse experiments to find approaches that preserve mucin, the mucus layer that protects the gut. Strategies include examining antibiotic choices and targeting mucus‑degrading bacteria such as Bacteroides and Akkermansia. The project combines patient sample analysis, microbial and genetic studies, and preclinical testing of mucus‑protective interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People scheduled for or recently having undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, particularly those receiving broad‑spectrum antibiotics, are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People not undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplant or whose problems are unrelated to gut microbes or mucus are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reduce intestinal GVHD, neutropenic fever, infections, and transplant‑related complications if mucus preservation strategies work.
How similar studies have performed: Prior patient and mouse studies have linked mucus‑degrading bacteria and certain antibiotics to worse GVHD and neutropenic fever, so this project builds on emerging evidence though protective therapies are still experimental.
Where this research is happening
Duarte, United States
- Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope — Duarte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jenq, Robert — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Jenq, Robert
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.