Understanding how gut bacteria cause abdominal pain

MECHANISMS OF VISCERAL PAIN DRIVEN BY SMALL INTESTINAL MICROBIOTA

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10931675

This study is looking at how the tiny bacteria in your gut might be causing abdominal pain if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and it hopes to find new ways to help you feel better by understanding how these bacteria communicate with your nervous system.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931675 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of small intestinal microbiota in causing abdominal pain, particularly in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By examining how gut bacteria and their products signal to the nervous system, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind visceral pain. The approach includes using advanced techniques like gene sequencing and animal models to explore the interactions between gut microbes and sensory pathways. Patients may gain insights into the biological factors contributing to their symptoms and potential new treatment avenues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome who experience frequent abdominal pain.

Not a fit: Patients with abdominal pain not related to gut microbiota or those with other gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for managing abdominal pain in IBS patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gut microbiota's role in gastrointestinal symptoms, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.
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.