The role of gut bacteria in inflammatory bowel disease and zinc deficiency
Gut bacterial metallophores in the development and severity of inflammatory bowel disease
This study is looking at how not getting enough zinc might impact gut health and make inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) worse, especially by seeing how gut bacteria compete for zinc, which is important for both you and the bacteria.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11049064 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how zinc deficiency affects gut health and contributes to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It focuses on the competition between gut bacteria for zinc, which is essential for both the host and the bacteria. By studying the mechanisms through which bacteria acquire zinc, particularly through metallophores, the research aims to understand their role in the development and severity of IBD. The study will analyze genetic factors and dietary influences on zinc levels in patients with IBD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those with known zinc deficiency.
Not a fit: Patients without inflammatory bowel disease or those who do not have issues related to zinc deficiency may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for inflammatory bowel disease by addressing zinc deficiency and its impact on gut health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing nutritional deficiencies can significantly impact the management of chronic diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Omaha, United States
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Omaha, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samuelson, Derrick R — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Samuelson, Derrick R
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.