Using fecal microbiota transplantation to treat auto-brewery syndrome
Official title: Fecal microbiota transplantation for auto-brewery syndrome
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10985656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether giving patients with auto-brewery syndrome a special treatment using healthy gut bacteria can help reduce their symptoms and improve their overall gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,040 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA031410-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old diagnosed with auto-brewery syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have auto-brewery syndrome or those with other unrelated gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a treatment for auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), a rare condition where the gut microbiome produces ethanol, leading to episodes of intoxication. The study aims to understand how the gut bacteria contribute to this condition and whether FMT can restore a healthy microbiome to alleviate symptoms. Patients with ABS will be treated with FMT capsules, and their progress will be monitored to assess safety and effectiveness. The research builds on preliminary findings that suggest a link between gut bacteria and ethanol production in ABS patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for patients suffering from auto-brewery syndrome, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with fecal microbiota transplantation in other gastrointestinal disorders, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schnabl, Bernd G. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Schnabl, Bernd G.
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-
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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.