Understanding Gut Problems in Down Syndrome
Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Down Syndrome
This project explores why people with Down Syndrome often experience digestive issues, aiming to find new ways to help their gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129618 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Individuals with Down Syndrome frequently face gastrointestinal challenges that significantly impact their daily lives. While much is known about the cognitive aspects of Down Syndrome, the reasons behind these gut problems are not well understood. This research looks closely at how the gut's nerve cells and muscle cells work together, focusing on how increased stress in the body might affect muscle contractions. By studying a special mouse model that mimics Down Syndrome, we hope to uncover the underlying causes of reduced gut movement.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant to individuals of all ages with Down Syndrome who experience gastrointestinal problems.
Not a fit: Patients without Down Syndrome or those who do not experience gastrointestinal dysfunction would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or therapies to improve gut function and quality of life for individuals with Down Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Our understanding of gastrointestinal effects in patients with Down Syndrome is still quite rudimentary, suggesting this approach is novel or in early stages of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akbarali, Hamid I — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Akbarali, Hamid I
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.