Understanding how deep inflammation in ulcerative colitis affects patient outcomes
Official title: Characterizing the transmural nature of ulcerative colitis and its associated disease-related outcomes using intestinal ultrasound: a paradigm shift in treatment targets
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11138143 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the deeper layers of the bowel affect the health and quality of life of people with ulcerative colitis, using ultrasound to find out what might help improve their symptoms and overall care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,572 |
| NIH project number | 1K23DK138292-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138143 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, whether they are experiencing active symptoms or are in remission.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with ulcerative colitis who have already undergone extensive surgical interventions or those with other unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the deeper structural changes in the bowel wall of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and how these changes relate to their overall health and quality of life. By using intestinal ultrasound, the study aims to identify predictors of these changes and their impact on disease outcomes. The goal is to shift the focus from just healing the surface of the bowel to understanding and treating the deeper layers that may contribute to ongoing symptoms and complications. This approach could lead to new treatment targets and improve patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ulcerative colitis by addressing the underlying causes of disease-related complications.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using intestinal ultrasound to assess deeper bowel changes is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding inflammatory bowel diseases, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cleveland, Noa Krugliak — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Cleveland, Noa Krugliak
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Outpatient pathway for severe ulcerative colitis in the right care setting
This study tests a safe, outpatient approach using an oral therapy and remote monitoring for people with acute severe ulcerative colitis to avoid hospitalization.
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Fh15-based therapy to calm inflammation in sepsis and ulcerative colitis
A research project tests a molecule from a parasitic organism (Fh15) to reduce harmful inflammation in adults with sepsis or ulcerative colitis.
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IMYX-3 treatment for ulcerative colitis
A new therapy approach called IMYX-3 aims to help adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis who have not responded well to current treatments.
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Autoantibodies and ulcerative colitis: how avb6 antibodies may drive disease
This NIH grant aims to understand how antibodies against a gut cell protein (αvβ6) may actively contribute to ulcerative colitis and what that means for future treatments.
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Selenium supplementation to help moderate-severe ulcerative colitis flare-ups
This grant tests whether giving selenium can help people with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis reduce flares and improve symptoms.
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Development of TP-317 for Ulcerative Colitis
A new therapy approach for ulcerative colitis aims to repair the intestinal lining and restore immune balance in people with UC, addressing a need for patients who don’t fully respond to current treatments.
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.