Vancomycin affects gut bacteria to protect the heart.

Glycopeptide vancomycin reshapes gut microbiota to mediate cardioprotective effects via microRNA-204

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11051178

This study is looking at how the antibiotic vancomycin can change the bacteria in your gut to help protect your heart, especially if you have conditions like aortic stenosis or high blood pressure, and it aims to find new ways to keep your heart healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051178 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the antibiotic vancomycin can change gut bacteria to provide protective effects for the heart, particularly in conditions like aortic stenosis and hypertension. It focuses on understanding the relationship between gut microbiota and heart health, specifically how certain bacteria can help prevent heart failure. The study will explore the role of microRNA-204, a molecule that is influenced by gut bacteria and is important for heart function. By manipulating gut microbes with vancomycin, the research aims to identify new ways to improve heart health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that increase the risk of heart failure, such as aortic stenosis or chronic hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients without heart conditions or those not affected by gut microbiota changes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that use antibiotics to enhance gut health and protect against heart failure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating gut microbiota for health benefits, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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.