Using targeted fecal microbiota transplantation to treat irritable bowel syndrome

Efficacy and Safety of Proteolytic Activity-Guided fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (PRAGMAT trial)

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10773350

This study is looking at whether a special treatment called fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who started having symptoms after an intestinal infection, by using healthy gut bacteria from carefully chosen donors to improve their gut health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10773350 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) to treat patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly those who developed symptoms after an intestinal infection. The study focuses on selecting donors with specific gut microbiota profiles that can help reduce harmful proteolytic activity in patients. By conducting a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, the researchers aim to determine the safety and effectiveness of this targeted approach in alleviating IBS symptoms. Patients will receive FMT from carefully screened donors to potentially restore a healthier gut microbiome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with post-infection irritable bowel syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with IBS not related to prior intestinal infections or those with other gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from post-infection irritable bowel syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with fecal microbiota transplantation in treating various gastrointestinal disorders, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.