Understanding how nutrition affects infections caused by C. difficile
Nutritional immunity and microbial competition during Clostridioides difficile infection
This study is looking at how the nutrients in our bodies and the balance between good and bad bacteria in our gut affect infections from Clostridioides difficile, especially in people who have recently taken antibiotics, to find better ways to prevent and treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092009 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the body’s nutritional defenses and the competition between harmful bacteria and the gut microbiome influence infections caused by Clostridioides difficile. It focuses on how nutrient metals, which are essential for both the bacteria and the host, play a role in the severity of these infections. By examining the immune response and the role of specific proteins like calprotectin, the research aims to uncover new insights into preventing and treating C. difficile infections, particularly in patients who have recently undergone antibiotic treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have recently taken antibiotics and are at risk for C. difficile infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have not taken antibiotics or those with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating C. difficile infections, potentially reducing hospitalizations and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of nutritional immunity can lead to significant advancements in treating bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skaar, Eric P — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Skaar, Eric P
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 below.