Using fecal bile acids to predict necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants
Official title: Assessing Variation in Fecal Bile Acids as a Novel Early Indicator of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11049130 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in bile acids in the poop of premature babies might help doctors spot necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) early, so they can take action before any symptoms show up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $547,703 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135567-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049130 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or those who do not develop necrotizing enterocolitis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of fecal bile acids as potential early indicators of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. By collecting daily fecal samples from infants in neonatal intensive care units, the study aims to identify variations in bile acid levels that may predict the onset of NEC before clinical symptoms appear. The approach involves analyzing these samples to develop predictive models that could lead to timely interventions for affected infants. If successful, this research could provide a much-needed diagnostic tool for a condition that currently lacks predictive tests.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the first predictive test for necrotizing enterocolitis, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality in premature infants.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using biomarkers for early detection of gastrointestinal conditions, but this specific approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halpern, Melissa D — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Halpern, Melissa D
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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.