Understanding how gut bacteria protect against Shigella infection
Official title: Defining human gut microbiome-mediated protection against Shigella infection
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11094037 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might help protect us from getting sick with Shigella, which causes diarrhea, by examining stool samples from people before they are exposed to the infection and testing it in mice to see how these helpful bacteria work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | May 23, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,625 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI185665-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094037 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with diverse gut microbiomes, particularly those who have been exposed to Shigella or are at risk of infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have a compromised gut microbiome or those who are already infected with Shigella may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the human gut microbiome in providing protection against Shigella infection, a major cause of diarrheal disease. By analyzing stool samples from individuals before they are exposed to Shigella, researchers aim to identify specific gut bacteria that may confer resistance to the infection. The study will utilize a novel mouse model to further explore how these bacteria interact with Shigella and inhibit its growth. Through advanced sequencing techniques and bacterial culture experiments, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind microbiome-mediated protection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing Shigella infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the protective roles of gut microbiomes against various infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wolf, Ashley Robin — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Wolf, Ashley Robin
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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.