Understanding Gut Infections Using Lab-Grown Intestinal Models
Human Gastrointestinal Biomimetics for Enteric Bacterial Infections
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11099870
This project uses tiny lab-grown models of human intestines to learn more about bacterial infections that cause diarrhea, especially in children.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11099870 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies' intestinal lining is a complex environment where bacteria, both good and bad, interact with our cells. This project uses tiny, lab-grown models of human intestines, called organoids, to better understand how certain bacterial infections take hold. We are focusing on a type of E. coli that causes persistent diarrhea, particularly in children and those with weakened immune systems. By studying how this bacteria attaches to different intestinal models, we hope to uncover why some people are more prone to infection than others. This knowledge is crucial for developing new ways to fight these challenging infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research could eventually benefit children, immunocompromised individuals, and travelers who suffer from persistent diarrheal illnesses caused by specific bacterial infections.
Not a fit: Patients whose diarrheal illnesses are not caused by enteric bacterial infections or who do not experience persistent symptoms may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or prevention strategies for severe diarrheal diseases, especially those resistant to current antibiotics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has successfully used human intestinal organoids to understand how this specific type of E. coli causes disease.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARESSO, ANTHONY W — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: MARESSO, ANTHONY W
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.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections