The role of gut bacteria in protecting salivary gland function in Sjögren’s syndrome
Official title: Gut Microbiome and Salivary Gland Function: Protective Actions & Key Players
Funded at Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. · NIH-10986368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might help your salivary glands work better for people with Sjögren’s syndrome, and it aims to find new ways to reduce inflammation and improve gland function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ada Forsyth Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | January 9, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $400,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI181002-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome who experience chronic salivary gland dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Sjögren’s syndrome or those who do not have salivary gland dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiome influences the function of salivary glands, particularly in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune condition that leads to chronic inflammation and dysfunction of these glands. The study aims to identify specific gut bacteria that may have protective effects on salivary glands and to understand their mechanisms of action. Researchers will use animal models and samples from Sjögren’s patients to explore these relationships and potential therapeutic strategies. By focusing on the gut-salivary gland connection, the research seeks to uncover novel approaches to improve gland function and reduce inflammation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance salivary gland function and alleviate symptoms for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking gut microbiome to salivary gland function is relatively novel, preliminary studies have shown promising results in related areas, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Qing — Ada Forsyth Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Yu, Qing
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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.