Understanding feeding issues in preterm infants using new biomarkers
Official title: Integrating Novel Physiological Biomarkers of Feeding Intolerance in Preterm Infants
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10900609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to tell the difference between two kinds of feeding problems in premature babies, using gentle methods to check their tummy health, so we can help them eat better and grow stronger.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,874 |
| NIH project number | 5K23HD108443-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation who are experiencing feeding intolerance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are full-term infants or those who do not exhibit any feeding intolerance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to differentiate between two types of feeding intolerance in preterm infants: developmental feeding intolerance (DFI) and pathologic feeding intolerance (PFI). By using non-invasive techniques such as electrogastrography and near-infrared spectroscopy, the study aims to monitor gastrointestinal function and gut microbiome changes in infants born before 32 weeks of gestation. The goal is to reduce unnecessary feeding delays and improve nutrition and health outcomes for these vulnerable infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management of feeding intolerance in preterm infants, ultimately improving their health and development.
How similar studies have gone: While the integration of these specific biomarkers is innovative, similar approaches in monitoring gastrointestinal health in preterm infants have shown promise in previous studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ortigoza, Eric Brum — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ortigoza, Eric Brum
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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.