Understanding how gut bacteria influence autoimmune diseases caused by trichloroethene exposure
Official title: Unraveling the contribution of gut microbiome in trichloroethene-mediated autoimmunity
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10927562 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in gut bacteria might play a role in developing autoimmune diseases, like lupus, when people are exposed to a chemical called TCE, using mice to help understand this connection better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $158,157 |
| NIH project number | 1R56ES035376-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10927562 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of exposure to trichloroethene and those with autoimmune diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to trichloroethene or do not have autoimmune conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbiome changes in the development of autoimmune diseases, specifically those triggered by exposure to trichloroethene (TCE). The study uses a mouse model to explore how TCE affects gut bacteria and immune responses, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that lead to autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). By analyzing fecal samples and the gut microbiota, the researchers hope to establish a connection between TCE exposure and autoimmune disease onset, which could lead to new prevention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into preventing or treating autoimmune diseases linked to environmental exposures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors, including gut microbiome changes, can influence autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khan, M. Firoze — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Khan, M. Firoze
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.