Understanding how the immune system and gut bacteria interact during treatment for C. difficile infections

Investigating Immune-Microbiome interactions during treatment of Clostridioides difficile with fecal microbiome transplantation

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11006338

This study is looking at how your immune system and gut bacteria work together when you receive a special treatment called fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT) for Clostridioides difficile infections, to help find out what makes this treatment more successful for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11006338 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between the immune system and gut microbiome in patients undergoing treatment for Clostridioides difficile infections, particularly focusing on fecal microbiome transplantation (FMT). It aims to identify the immune factors that enhance or inhibit the success of FMT, which is a promising alternative to traditional antibiotic treatments. By studying both human immune responses and using animal models, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to effective treatment outcomes. Patients may be monitored over time to assess how their immune profiles change in response to FMT.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced recurrent C. difficile infections and are considering fecal microbiome transplantation as a treatment option.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with C. difficile infections or those who are not candidates for fecal microbiome transplantation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients suffering from recurrent C. difficile infections, potentially reducing recurrence rates and associated healthcare costs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that fecal microbiome transplantation can be effective in treating recurrent C. difficile infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions bacterial disease treatmentbacterial infectious disease treatment
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.