Understanding how a specific protein affects gut health in premature infants
The role of the RNA binding protein IMP1 in intercellular communication and necrotizing enterocolitis
This study is looking at a protein called IMP1 in the intestines of premature babies with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) to see how it affects gut health and immune responses, which could lead to better treatments for this serious condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059126 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the RNA binding protein IMP1 in the intestines of premature infants suffering from necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious inflammatory disease. The study aims to understand how IMP1 influences cell communication and immune responses in the gut, which could help identify new treatment strategies. Researchers will use genetic mouse models and patient-derived cell cultures to explore how changes in IMP1 levels affect intestinal barrier function and immune cell activation. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to fill critical gaps in our understanding of NEC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk for or diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis.
Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have necrotizing enterocolitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve gut health and outcomes for premature infants at risk of necrotizing enterocolitis.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of IMP1 in NEC is not well-established, similar studies investigating cell communication and immune function in gut health have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andres, Sarah — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Andres, Sarah
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.