Understanding how the bladder protects against urinary tract infections

Urothelial IL-6 Signaling in the Host Defense Against Urinary Tract Infections

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · RESEARCH INST NATIONWIDE CHILDREN'S HOSP · NIH-10615681

This study is looking at how a part of your bladder helps fight off urinary tract infections (UTIs) by focusing on a substance called IL-6, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent and treat UTIs, especially as antibiotics become less effective.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRESEARCH INST NATIONWIDE CHILDREN'S HOSP (nih funded)
Locations1 site (COLUMBUS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10615681 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the bladder lining in defending against urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly focusing on the cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6). The study aims to uncover how IL-6 activates specific pathways that help clear harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, from the urinary tract. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could complement or replace traditional antibiotic treatments, especially in the face of rising antibiotic resistance. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative prevention and treatment options for UTIs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults who experience recurrent urinary tract infections.

Not a fit: Patients with UTIs caused by non-E. coli pathogens or those who do not experience recurrent infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the body's natural defenses against urinary tract infections, reducing reliance on antibiotics.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in exploring innate immune responses to bacterial infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

COLUMBUS, 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: Bacterial Infections, bacteria infection, bacterial 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.