Understanding how diet and gut bacteria affect the immune system and autoimmune diseases

Deconstructing interactions between diet, microbiome, and immunity to gain mechanistic insight into health and disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11087715

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut, which are affected by what you eat, can influence your immune system and potentially help manage autoimmune diseases like inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis, so you can learn how your diet might improve your health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11087715 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the gut microbiome, influenced by diet, affects immune responses related to autoimmune diseases. It focuses on specific gut bacteria that can activate immune cells, particularly T helper 17 (Th17) cells, which are linked to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis. By exploring the interactions between dietary factors and gut bacteria, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new dietary strategies for managing autoimmune conditions. Patients may benefit from insights into how their diet can influence their immune health and disease progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients without autoimmune conditions or those not affected by gut microbiome-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that help manage or prevent autoimmune diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of diet and microbiome interactions in immune responses, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Autoimmune Diseases, autoimmune disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.