Using Lactobacillus to reduce gastrointestinal damage from radiation exposure

Mitigation of GI-ARS by Lactobacillus species

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE HEALTH SCI CTR · NIH-10991008

This study is looking at how certain friendly bacteria, called Lactobacillus, might help protect your gut from damage caused by radiation, especially if you've experienced gastrointestinal issues from it, and it hopes to find new ways to help you recover better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE HEALTH SCI CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10991008 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific Lactobacillus species can help protect the gut from damage caused by radiation exposure, particularly in cases of Gastrointestinal Acute Radiation Syndrome (GI-ARS). The study focuses on understanding how radiation alters the gut microbiome and identifying the mechanisms behind this process. By administering Lactobacillus casei and plantarum after radiation exposure, the research aims to mitigate gut barrier dysfunction and inflammation. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatments that could improve recovery from radiation-related injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to radiation or are at risk of exposure, such as those involved in nuclear incidents or certain medical treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to radiation or do not have gastrointestinal issues related to radiation exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from gastrointestinal damage due to radiation exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using probiotics to support gut health, suggesting that this approach may be viable for mitigating radiation effects.

Where this research is happening

MEMPHIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Radiation Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.