Understanding how sensory neurons and mast cells interact in irritable bowel syndrome
Official title: Sensory neuron-mast cell crosstalk in IBS pathophysiology
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11111516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells and immune cells in the gut work together in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to cause symptoms like abdominal pain, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $117,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DK142736-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other gastrointestinal disorders or those not diagnosed with IBS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between sensory neurons and mast cells in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), focusing on how these interactions contribute to abdominal pain and other symptoms. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind visceral hypersensitivity and barrier dysfunction, which are common in IBS. By examining the role of Substance P, a neuropeptide released by sensory neurons, the researchers will explore how it activates mast cells and affects gut health. This could lead to a better understanding of IBS and the development of targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for abdominal pain in IBS patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of mast cells and sensory neurons in gastrointestinal disorders can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
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University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Prashant — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Singh, Prashant
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.