Understanding how the body absorbs iron from food in different conditions.
Official title: Mechanisms of Intestinal Heme-iron Absorption in Rat Models of Iron Deficiency and Iron Overload
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11081686 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our bodies take in heme iron from food, especially for people dealing with low iron levels or too much iron, to help improve treatments for conditions like anemia and hemochromatosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $653,512 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134583-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081686 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for iron deficiency or overload, such as children, pregnant women, and those with hereditary hemochromatosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues related to iron absorption or regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of how the body absorbs heme iron, a type of iron found in food, particularly in the context of iron deficiency and overload. Using a rat model, the study aims to uncover the biological processes involved in iron absorption, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of conditions like anemia and hereditary hemochromatosis. The research focuses on how the body regulates iron levels through intestinal absorption, which is crucial for maintaining overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for iron deficiency and overload, benefiting patients with anemia and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding iron absorption mechanisms in animal models, but this specific approach using rats for heme iron absorption is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Collins, James F. — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Collins, James F.
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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.