The role of gut bacteria and tryptophan in lupus
Official title: Gut dysbiosis and tryptophan metabolism in lupus
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11071398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut and how your body processes tryptophan might affect lupus, a condition that can cause your immune system to attack itself, by comparing the gut bacteria of people with lupus to those who are healthy, to find out if certain bacteria could be making your symptoms worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2019 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $529,926 |
| NIH project number | 2R01AI143313-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly those experiencing disease flares.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lupus who are in remission or those without a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in gut bacteria and tryptophan metabolism may contribute to the development and worsening of lupus, an autoimmune disease. By comparing gut microbial communities in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and healthy individuals, the study aims to identify specific bacteria that may trigger immune responses leading to disease flares. The research utilizes both patient samples and mouse models to explore the relationship between gut health and lupus activity, focusing on how certain gut bacteria can influence immune system behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting gut bacteria to improve outcomes for lupus patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that gut microbiota can influence autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morel, Laurence — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Morel, Laurence
Related research
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Gut bacteria and tryptophan's role in lupus
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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.