Understanding Ceramides for Gut Regeneration and Health
The Role of Ceramides in the Intestinal Stem Cell
['FUNDING_R01'] · UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-11092117
This research explores how certain fats called ceramides help our gut cells regenerate and stay healthy, and how they might be involved in gut cancers.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11092117 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells can accumulate fats like ceramides, which help them adjust to too much fat in the diet. This project aims to understand how ceramides specifically affect the stem cells in our intestines, which are crucial for repairing and renewing the gut lining. We will use advanced models to uncover the exact ways ceramides control how these gut stem cells grow and develop. Additionally, we will look into whether too many ceramides might contribute to the development and spread of gut tumors. The goal is to find new ways to use this knowledge to improve gut health and potentially treat gut-related diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future patients with gut health issues or gastrointestinal cancers could benefit from its findings.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications or strategies to improve gut health, promote intestinal regeneration, and potentially prevent or treat gastrointestinal cancers.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon previous findings that show ceramides alter tissue metabolism, suggesting a promising foundation for further investigation into their role in the gut.
Where this research is happening
SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES
- UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH — SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SUMMERS, SCOTT A — UTAH STATE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM--UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- Study coordinator: SUMMERS, SCOTT A
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.