The link between gut bacteria and early death in dialysis patients
Official title: Circulating microbiome and premature mortality in hemodialysis patients
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10793526 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain germs in the blood might affect inflammation and the risk of early death in people on hemodialysis, helping us understand their impact on heart health and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $359,704 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK125586-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10793526 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage renal disease who are currently receiving hemodialysis treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing hemodialysis or those with acute infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the presence of certain microorganisms in the bloodstream may contribute to chronic inflammation and increased risk of premature death in patients undergoing hemodialysis. By analyzing the circulating microbiome, which includes bacteria, archaea, and fungi, the study aims to understand its relationship with cardiovascular diseases and overall health outcomes in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. The approach involves advanced microbial DNA sequencing to identify and quantify these microorganisms over time, providing insights into their potential role in inflammation and mortality.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing inflammation and improving survival rates in hemodialysis patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of the circulating microbiome is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promising results linking microbial communities to chronic inflammation and cardiovascular conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sumida, Keiichi — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Sumida, Keiichi
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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.