Understanding how gut bacteria affect the risk of graft-versus-host disease after stem cell transplants

New data science approaches to visualize and understand the impact of the microbiome on risk of graft-versus-host disease

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11023128

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect the risk of developing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after a stem cell transplant, and it aims to create easy-to-use tools that help doctors understand this connection better to improve patient care.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11023128 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the gut microbiome in influencing the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation. By analyzing the composition of gut bacteria, the study aims to develop new data science methods to visualize and interpret microbiome data, which can help predict and potentially reduce the incidence of GVHD. The researchers will create user-friendly tools for both visualization and prediction, making it easier for clinicians to understand microbiome profiles and their implications for patient care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation for blood disorders such as acute leukemia or aplastic anemia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing stem cell transplantation or those with conditions unrelated to blood disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for predicting and preventing graft-versus-host disease, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of stem cell transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's role in various health conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific application to GVHD is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions Blood Diseasesblood disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.