Using butyrate therapy to improve symptoms in Gulf War veterans

Microbiome targeted oral butyrate therapy in Gulf War multisymptom illness

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11046533

This study is looking at how butyrate therapy might help veterans with Gulf War Illness feel better by improving their gut health and overall well-being, especially if they have tummy troubles or memory issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Long Beach, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046533 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of butyrate therapy to alleviate symptoms associated with Gulf War Illness (GWI) in veterans. It focuses on understanding how the gut microbiome influences the health of these individuals, particularly in relation to gastrointestinal disturbances and cognitive function. By analyzing the microbiome and its metabolites, the study aims to restore a healthy gut environment and improve overall quality of life for affected veterans. The approach includes preclinical studies that have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and improving gut health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have been diagnosed with Gulf War Illness and are experiencing related symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Gulf War Illness or those with other unrelated chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that significantly improves the quality of life for veterans suffering from Gulf War Illness.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with microbiome-targeted therapies in similar gastrointestinal and inflammatory conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for treatment.

Where this research is happening

Long Beach, 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.
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.