Cincinnati Children's Doc Wins Time Honor for 'Butt Breathing' Study

Takanori Takebe's research into alternative oxygen treatments gets global recognition.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Cincinnati Children's scientist Takanori Takebe has been named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential Leaders in Health for his work on a medical procedure that would allow people with respiratory problems to receive oxygen through their anuses. The innovative 'butt breathing' concept, which has proven effective in animal trials, aims to provide an alternative to painful mechanical ventilation devices.

Why it matters

Takebe's research highlights the need for new treatments for severe respiratory illnesses, especially as mechanical ventilators have limitations. His work on using the colon to absorb oxygen could potentially save lives and relieve suffering for patients struggling with lung issues.

The details

Takebe's procedure involves using a tube to push a liquid high in oxygen into a patient's anus. While people can't directly breathe through their colons, they can absorb the oxygen in the liquid through the thin walls of their intestines. This 'enteral ventilation' method could provide an alternative to more invasive mechanical devices.

  • Takebe's work on 'butt breathing' first proved effective in trials on mice and pigs several years ago.
  • Last year, Takebe's innovative research won him an Ig Nobel Prize, a satirical award that honors work that 'makes people laugh, then think'.
  • Takebe's latest achievement is being named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential Leaders in Health for 2026.

The players

Takanori Takebe

A 39-year-old scientist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital who has developed a medical procedure to allow people with respiratory problems to receive oxygen through their anuses.

Takebe's father

Takebe was inspired to pursue this research after watching his father undergo painful treatments for respiratory problems, motivating him to find a better solution.

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What they’re saying

“There are multiple health conditions, including respiratory distress in newborn patients, that can threaten lives by disrupting our lungs' ability to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream.”

— Takanori Takebe (Cincinnati Children's)

What’s next

More clinical trials in humans for Takebe's 'butt breathing' procedure are coming soon.

The takeaway

Takebe's innovative research into alternative oxygen treatments, including his unconventional 'butt breathing' concept, demonstrates the critical need for new medical solutions to help patients with severe respiratory illnesses. His work has gained global recognition for its potential to save lives and relieve suffering.