Understanding how tiny vesicles affect gut health and inflammation
Official title: Immunoregulatory roles for exosomes in the gastrointestinal tract
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11111299 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles released by immune cells that help keep your gut healthy and may prevent issues like colitis and colon cancer, so we can find new ways to help manage or prevent these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | June 10, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $767,043 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI181021-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111299 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases, such as colitis, or those at risk for colon cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with gastrointestinal conditions unrelated to inflammation or exosome function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of exosomes, which are small vesicles released by immune cells, in maintaining gut health and preventing inflammatory bowel diseases. The study focuses on how these exosomes communicate with other cells in the gastrointestinal tract to regulate immune responses. By examining the genetic factors that influence exosome production, particularly in relation to conditions like colitis and colon cancer, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights into how to better manage or prevent these gastrointestinal conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases and colon cancer by targeting exosome communication pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding exosome functions in other contexts, but this specific approach in the gastrointestinal tract is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connell, Ryan M — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: O'connell, Ryan M
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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.