Understanding how rotavirus interacts with immune cells in the gut

Rotavirus interaction with gut intraepithelial lymphocytes

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10877934

This study is looking at how tiny cells in the gut talk to immune cells when babies and young kids get sick from rotavirus, which causes diarrhea, to find out how their bodies fight the virus and explore new ways to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877934 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the communication between small bowel epithelial cells and intraepithelial lymphocytes during rotavirus infections, which are a leading cause of diarrhea in infants and young children. By studying how these immune cells respond to the virus, the research aims to uncover the signaling pathways involved in the immune response within the gastrointestinal tract. The team has developed innovative models, including a neonatal mouse model and organoid cultures, to better understand these interactions and test potential therapeutic interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants and young children who are at risk of rotavirus infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or those not affected by rotavirus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce diarrhea and its complications in young children infected with rotavirus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to viral infections, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.