Using a probiotic to protect the gut from radiation damage

Investigation of the mechanisms of H-ARS mitigation by the orally administrated GI-ARS mitigator LR-IFN-beta

NIH-funded research Chromologic, LLC · NIH-11017408

This study is testing a special probiotic that has been modified to help heal your gut after radiation exposure, like what might happen in a nuclear emergency, and it’s designed to be taken easily by mouth.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChromologic, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Monrovia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017408 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a genetically modified probiotic designed to deliver a therapeutic agent directly to the gastrointestinal tract. The goal is to reduce damage and promote tissue regeneration after exposure to ionizing radiation, which can occur during nuclear incidents. By targeting intestinal stem cells, this approach aims to improve survival rates from acute radiation syndrome, particularly gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome. The probiotic can be taken orally, making it suitable for emergency situations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of radiation exposure, such as those in emergency response roles or patients undergoing abdominal radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to radiation or those with conditions unrelated to gastrointestinal health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates and recovery for individuals exposed to harmful radiation.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar strategies using probiotics for therapeutic delivery have shown promise in other contexts, but this specific application is novel.

Where this research is happening

Monrovia, 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 Acute Radiation Syndrome
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.