Understanding how a specific gene variant affects fibrosis in Crohn's disease
Official title: Elucidating mechanisms of fibrosis associated with the Crohns disease-associated pathogenic variant in the metal transporter ZIP8
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10758267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific gene that might make Crohn's disease worse by causing more scarring in the intestines, and it's hoping to find new ways to help patients like you by understanding how this gene affects the cells involved in inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $117,900 |
| NIH project number | 5R03DK134595-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10758267 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease, especially those experiencing complications like stricturing or penetrating disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Crohn's disease who do not have the specific ZIP8 variant or those with mild forms of the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a genetic variant in the ZIP8 metal transporter that is linked to increased fibrosis in patients with Crohn's disease. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover how this variant influences the interaction between inflammatory cells and fibroblasts, which may lead to treatment resistance. The research will utilize a mouse model to explore the mechanisms behind this process and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients with Crohn's disease may benefit from insights gained about their condition and new treatment strategies that could emerge from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with Crohn's disease, particularly those who do not respond to current therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in inflammatory bowel diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Melia, Joanna Miller Peloquin — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Melia, Joanna Miller Peloquin
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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.