Understanding how a parent-to-child nasal microbiota transplant affects newborns' nasal bacteria

Characterizing the Neonatal Nasal Microbiome Following a Parent-to-Child Nasal Microbiota Transplant

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11052795

This study is looking at how giving newborns a nasal bacteria transplant from their parents might help protect them from infections, especially from a common germ called Staphylococcus aureus, by making their nasal bacteria healthier and more diverse.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052795 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of a parent-to-child nasal microbiota transplant on the nasal microbiome of newborns, particularly focusing on the common pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. The study aims to understand how this transplant may influence the diversity of bacteria in the nasal passages of neonates, which could help prevent serious infections. By analyzing nasal swab samples from infants, researchers will assess the relationship between bacterial community diversity and the risk of S. aureus infections. The ultimate goal is to develop new strategies to protect vulnerable newborns from life-threatening infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include newborns, especially those with very low birth weight or those at risk of S. aureus infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are not newborns or those without risk factors for S. aureus infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative methods for preventing severe infections in newborns, particularly those at high risk.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches have shown promise in other studies, but this specific method of parent-to-child nasal microbiota transplant is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.