Using stem cells from the gut to treat complications of Crohn's disease
Official title: Investigation of Human Gut-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Cellular Therapy
Funded at Mercer University Macon · NIH-10795230 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at using special cells from the rectum of Crohn's disease patients to create a new treatment for painful perianal fistulas, with the hope that using your own cells will make the therapy safer and more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mercer University Macon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Macon, United States) |
| Project start | July 17, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,545 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI176177-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795230 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease who are experiencing complications such as perianal fistulas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Crohn's disease or those not experiencing perianal complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from the rectum of patients with Crohn's disease to develop a new cellular therapy for treating perianal fistulas, a serious complication of the disease. The approach focuses on creating an autologous therapy, meaning the stem cells are taken from the same patient, which may reduce side effects associated with allogeneic therapies. The researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of these stem cells through preactivation with inflammatory cues, potentially improving patient outcomes. This preclinical phase will explore the immunosuppressive and regenerative properties of these gut-derived stem cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients suffering from perianal fistulas related to Crohn's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cells for treating similar conditions, but this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
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Mercer University Macon
Macon, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chinnadurai, Raghavan — Mercer University Macon
- Study coordinator: Chinnadurai, Raghavan
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.