The role of gut bacteria in organ damage for sickle cell disease

The microbiome determines organ damage development in sickle cell disease

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10915724

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect organ damage in people with sickle cell disease, and it hopes to find new ways to improve health by changing these bacteria through diet or other methods.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915724 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the microbiome, or gut bacteria, affects the development of organ damage in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). By studying mice with SCD, researchers have found that certain bacteria may contribute to organ damage, while reducing these bacteria can improve health outcomes. The study aims to explore the potential of manipulating gut bacteria as a new treatment approach for SCD over a five-year period. Patients may be involved in trials that test dietary changes or other interventions aimed at altering their microbiome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease, particularly those experiencing complications related to organ damage.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of sickle cell disease or those who do not have significant organ damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce organ damage and improve the quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in manipulating the microbiome for various health conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for sickle cell disease.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.