Understanding how intestinal cells help rotavirus spread and cause illness

Elucidating the role of intestinal M cells in rotavirus enteric infection, systemic dissemination, and pathogenesis

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11014954

This study is looking at how a specific type of cell in the gut helps the rotavirus spread, which causes bad diarrhea in young kids, so that researchers can find better ways to prevent and treat these infections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014954 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specialized intestinal cells called M cells in the spread of rotavirus, a leading cause of severe diarrhea in young children. The study aims to uncover how rotavirus bypasses the intestinal barrier and disseminates to other organs, potentially leading to serious health issues. By examining the interactions between the virus and M cells, researchers hope to identify the mechanisms of infection and systemic spread. This could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for rotavirus infections in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 5 who are experiencing rotavirus infections.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those without rotavirus infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines or therapies that better protect children from rotavirus infections and their complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on similar viral infections has shown promise in understanding how viruses exploit intestinal cells, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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 →

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.