NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how gut bacteria interact with mucus in the digestive system

Official title: Exploring the complex interactions between gut microbes and mucus

Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10941609 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut interact with the protective mucus lining your digestive system, which could help us understand gut health better and find new ways to treat related issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$377,500
NIH project number1R35GM155451-01
Project IDNIH-10941609 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or those interested in gut health.

Less likely to help

Patients with no gastrointestinal issues or those not interested in gut microbiome research may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationships between gut bacteria and mucus, which is a protective layer in the gastrointestinal tract. It aims to uncover how these bacteria interact with mucus, how they influence its production, and how mucus affects bacterial behavior. By utilizing advanced techniques and collaborative expertise, the study seeks to clarify the roles of mucus in maintaining gut health and its impact on bacterial communities. This knowledge could lead to better understanding of gut health and potential treatments for related disorders.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gastrointestinal disorders by enhancing our understanding of gut health.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding gut microbiome interactions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Medical University of South Carolina
    Charleston, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Engevik, Melinda Anne — Medical University of South Carolina
  • Study coordinator: Engevik, Melinda Anne

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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  • Enteric neuron and intestinal stem cell signals shaping gut barrier

    A research project from the Medical University of South Carolina explores how nerve cells in the gut talk to the lining and stem cells to defend the digestive tract, using human organoids and mouse models.

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  • Glutamine and macrophage behavior in liver cancer

    A funded project at a medical university aims to understand how the liver’s immune cells interact with a specific type of liver cancer by looking at metabolism, especially glutamine and ammonia.

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  • Glycoprotein urine markers that signal lupus nephritis treatment response

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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.