NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how ESBL E. coli affects the gut microbiome in infants

Official title: Investigating the impact of ESBL E. coli colonization on infant microbiome

Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-10884428 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain bacteria that can cause infections affect the gut health of babies, focusing on when these bacteria show up and how food might influence their impact on the gut.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project startJuly 7, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$195,186
NIH project number5R21AI178334-02
Project IDNIH-10884428 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are infants who may be at risk of colonization by ESBL E. coli, particularly those born in settings where such bacteria are prevalent.

Less likely to help

Patients who are older than 21 years or those who have not been exposed to ESBL E. coli may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of colonization by extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli on the gut microbiome of infants. It aims to understand how these bacteria, which can cause serious infections, impact the development of the gut microbiome during early life. The study will analyze the timing of colonization and the role of nutrition in shaping the microbiome. By using a murine model, researchers will explore how these bacteria persist in the gut and their potential long-term effects on health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing infections in infants and better understanding of gut health.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that understanding gut colonization in early life can significantly impact health outcomes, indicating that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

  • Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
    Chicago, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Arshad, Mehreen — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
  • Study coordinator: Arshad, Mehreen

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.