NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how gut bacteria affect diabetic foot ulcers

Official title: The Role of the Microbiome in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11096709 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our bodies might help or hurt the healing of diabetic foot ulcers, and it's for people with diabetes who want to learn more about improving their wound healing.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2022
Project endJuly 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$189,000
NIH project number3K23DK131261-03S1
Project IDNIH-11096709 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcers.

Less likely to help

Patients without diabetic foot ulcers or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the microbiome, which includes the bacteria living in and on our bodies, in the healing process of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). By analyzing the genetic material of these bacteria, the study aims to identify factors that may hinder or promote healing in DFUs. The approach involves collecting samples from patients with DFUs to better understand how these microorganisms influence wound healing. The goal is to find new ways to improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from this serious complication of diabetes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healing strategies for diabetic foot ulcers, potentially reducing the need for amputations and improving patient quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have suggested a link between the microbiome and wound healing, but this research aims to address design limitations and provide more definitive insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
    Ann Arbor, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Schmidt, Brian M — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
  • Study coordinator: Schmidt, Brian M

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.