Understanding how a protein affects gut health and stomach movement in critically ill children
Evaluating the effect of zonulin-mediated intestinal trafficking on gastrointestinal macrophages and their function on gastric motility
This study is looking at how a protein called zonulin affects stomach movement in critically ill children, hoping to find new ways to help them feel better by understanding how it interacts with gut health and immune cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10916212 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of zonulin, a protein that influences the movement of substances across the intestinal barrier, in the context of gastric dysmotility in critically ill children. It aims to understand how zonulin-mediated changes in gut microbiome and macrophage function contribute to problems with stomach movement. The study will utilize animal models and inhibitors to explore these mechanisms, providing insights that could lead to new therapeutic options for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill children experiencing gastric dysmotility.
Not a fit: Patients who are not critically ill or do not have issues with gastric motility may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gastric dysmotility in critically ill children, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiome and macrophages in gastrointestinal health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez, Enid E. — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Martinez, Enid E.
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.