Understanding the Gut's Role in Lung Scarring
Gut Microbiota and Host Regulatory Cross-Talk in Pulmonary Fibrosis
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11169009
This work explores how the bacteria in our gut might influence lung scarring in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11169009 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious lung condition with no known cure, causing significant breathing difficulties and often leading to hospitalizations. We know that the body's immune system in the lungs is not working correctly in IPF, and the bacteria living in our gut, called the gut microbiome, play a big part in how our immune system functions. This work aims to uncover specific gut bacteria, like Bifidobacterium, that might control the lung's immune response, inflammation, and how the lung repairs itself after injury. By understanding these connections, we hope to find new ways to help patients with chronic lung diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is for patients interested in the underlying causes of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and the potential for future microbiome-targeted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical trial participation may not find direct benefit from this foundational research at this stage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new microbiome-based treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings suggest a link between the gut microbiome and lung health, with some studies showing that the gut microbiome predicts outcomes in human IPF patients.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'DWYER, DAVID NOEL — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: O'DWYER, DAVID NOEL
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 below.