Understanding how gut barrier function affects food allergies

Role of epithelial barrier function in food-induced anaphylaxis

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11056099

This study is looking at how a protein called JAM-A helps keep our gut healthy and how its absence might lead to food allergies, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or treat severe allergic reactions in people who are affected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11056099 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, Junction Adhesion Molecule-A (JAM-A), in maintaining the intestinal barrier and its impact on food allergies. By studying mice that lack this protein, researchers aim to understand how food allergens can penetrate the gut lining and trigger severe allergic reactions. The study will also explore ways to reduce allergic responses by targeting mast cells, which play a key role in allergic reactions. This research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating food-induced anaphylaxis in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults who have been diagnosed with food allergies or are at risk of developing them.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have food allergies or those with other unrelated allergic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or preventive measures for individuals with food allergies, potentially reducing the incidence of severe allergic reactions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of epithelial barriers in allergies, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Allergic Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.