Gastroenteritis

Researchers are conducting the GENESIS clinical study to map the HLA genomic region in the Greek population and explore its possible links with various underlying diseases. This non-interventional, multicenter study aims to provide a pilot map of genetic variation in HLA that may be useful in medical research and clinical applications related to selected diseases. The study plans to include 12,000 participants over a total duration of 36 months. Each participant will attend one visit at a participating site during which they will provide demographic data, lifestyle information such as smoking and alcohol use, blood pressure measurements, details on diagnosed diseases and treatments, and recent laboratory test results if available. Buccal swab samples will be collected from each participant to extract DNA for HLA genotyping analysis. Selected samples will undergo further whole genome sequencing to investigate associations with autoimmune diseases. Participants will receive a personalized ancestry report after analysis completion. During the study visit, data collection includes demographic and health information, as well as laboratory and clinical test results from the past year. The genetic material from buccal swabs will be stored and processed for genetic analysis. Researchers will measure allele frequency of HLA alleles in the Greek population and assess the prevalence and risk associations of selected HLA-related diseases. The study's total duration is 36 months with results available at the end of this period.

Researchers are investigating the relationship between gut microbiota dysfunction and Alzheimer's disease (AD), focusing on how gut-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) may influence brain function through the "gut microbiota-SCFAs-brain networks" pathway. This observational study will explore differences in SCFAs among people across the AD spectrum, including cognitively normal individuals, those with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and AD dementia. The project aims to clarify the interactions between gut microbiome, metabolites, and brain changes using high-throughput metabolomics and multi-modal MRI techniques. Participants will be grouped into four categories: cognitively normal, SCD, MCI, and AD dementia. The study involves collecting multi-omics data, including gut microbiome analysis, metabolomics, and neuroimaging, to establish a diagnostic model for SCD due to preclinical AD using machine learning methods. The study spans five years, during which gut microbiome changes, SCFAs levels, and multi-omics biomarkers related to cognitive impairment conversion will be monitored. Participants will undergo cognitive tests and brain imaging scans, along with gut microbiome and metabolite sample collection. Researchers will assess the interaction mechanisms of the gut microbiota-SCFAs-brain networks over five years. The study includes both healthy volunteers and patients aged 60 to 80. Outcome measures focus on changes in gut microbiome, SCFAs, and biomarkers linked to cognitive decline, with long-term follow-up to better understand the disease progression and its early detection.

Frailty is a common condition in older adults that can increase the risk of poor health outcomes such as falls, hospital stays, and death. This research aims to study how assessing frailty before a colonoscopy might affect patient satisfaction and the number of colonoscopies avoided. The study is a prospective randomized controlled trial involving patients over 65 years old at Princess Alexandra Hospital, comparing a personalized approach using a frailty assessment to standard care. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive a personalized approach that includes a frailty assessment using tests like grip strength, sit-to-stand timing, balance, and gait speed, along with questionnaires about medical conditions. The gastroenterologist will discuss the results and risks with the patient to help decide about having a surveillance colonoscopy. The other group will receive standard care, which involves discussing the benefits and risks of colonoscopy without the frailty assessment. During the study, participants will complete satisfaction questionnaires at the time of consultation and within weeks after any colonoscopy procedure. Researchers will track how many patients choose to avoid colonoscopy after receiving information and will monitor colorectal cancer-related complications and other causes of death within five years. The study will assess how the personalized approach may impact decision-making and patient satisfaction with outpatient services related to colonoscopy care.

Researchers are evaluating the safety, tolerability, and how the body processes (pharmacokinetics) single and multiple intravenous doses of a drug called BWC0977 in healthy adult volunteers. This Phase 1 study involves a total of 64 healthy adults aged 18 to 55 years and is designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with multiple dose groups. The study focuses on measuring any treatment-emergent adverse events and serious adverse events to understand the drug's safety profile. Participants will be divided into two main groups: single ascending dose (SAD) and multiple ascending dose (MAD) cohorts. In the SAD phase, volunteers receive one intravenous infusion of BWC0977 or placebo over 2 hours at doses of 750 mg or 1500 mg. In the MAD phase, participants receive multiple intravenous infusions of BWC0977 or placebo over 30 minutes to 2 hours daily for 7 to 10 consecutive days. Dose levels will increase sequentially based on safety and tolerability data collected during the study. During the study, participants will undergo various assessments including physical exams, vital signs, ECGs, laboratory tests, and blood sampling at specific times before, during, and after infusions to monitor safety and measure drug levels in the body. Researchers will track adverse events for up to 8 days after single dosing and up to 16 days after multiple dosing. Volunteers must comply with study visits and requirements throughout the trial, which lasts until August 2026.

Researchers are evaluating a combined screening and follow-up management approach for gastrointestinal tumors. This study aims to explore and assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of screening for esophagus, stomach, and colorectal cancers in a population-based, multicenter setting. The trial includes participants aged 45 to 70 years and will observe outcomes over a 10-year follow-up period. Participants are divided into groups undergoing different screening methods. Group one receives gastroscopy, colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FIT), Helicobacter pylori antigen test, RNF180 and SEPTIN9 gene methylation tests, along with an investigation of various risk factors such as past diseases, lifestyle habits, family cancer history, and reproductive status. Group two undergoes risk factor investigation, FIT, and Helicobacter pylori antigen stool test; if positive, further gene methylation tests and possibly colonoscopy are conducted. Control groups matched by spouse or sibling undergo only risk factor investigations. During the study, participants provide information on medical history, lifestyle habits, and family cancer history. Screening tests including endoscopies, stool tests, and gene methylation analyses are performed as specified. Researchers will monitor the detection of cancer or precancerous lesions over 10 years, tracking health outcomes and the effectiveness of combined screening. Safety and adherence are observed throughout the follow-up.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of early remote interventions for patients with severe, chronic, or relapsing gastrointestinal symptoms that lack clear explanation and who are waiting for care in an integrated clinic. The study uses a two-stage randomization to compare different approaches, aiming to improve symptom management, identify which patients respond best to certain treatments, and assess acceptance of new care models. About 200 patients will initially have their symptoms and wheat intolerance assessed remotely. Participants who continue to experience symptoms after initial assessment will be randomly assigned to one of four pre-consultation interventions: a standardized dietician-supervised program, an exercise program, internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy, or no intervention. Following this, they will be randomized again to receive either a consultant-led outpatient clinic consultation or care in an integrated clinic, depending on their response to the pre-consultation intervention. Throughout the study, participants will be regularly assessed using a structured gastrointestinal symptoms score and quality of life measures, collected at multiple time points up to 44 weeks. Additional evaluations include anxiety and depression scales, microbiome analysis, and acceptance of care models by patients and staff. Cost-effectiveness will also be tracked. The total participation involves remote interventions, clinical consultations, and multiple assessments over time to monitor symptoms, quality of life, and treatment impact.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of low volume Transanal Irrigation (TAI) using the Qufora IrriSedo MiniGo device combined with standard conservative treatments compared to conservative treatment alone for patients with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). This condition affects individuals who have undergone surgery for rectal cancer. The study aims to assess improvements in clinical symptoms of LARS over a three-month period. Participants are divided into two groups: one receiving low volume TAI with the MiniGo device plus standard conservative care, which includes dietary management, counseling, and prescribed medications excluding suppositories and physiotherapy; and another group receiving only the standard conservative treatments. The study includes follow-ups at 6 weeks, 3 months, and up to 12 months to monitor various outcomes. During the study, participants will be regularly assessed using the LARS score to measure symptom changes, quality of life questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR29), incontinence scores, patient satisfaction, treatment compliance, bowel management time, and healthcare resource usage. Data will be collected at multiple intervals including 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months to thoroughly evaluate the treatment impact and patient preferences.

Researchers are evaluating the impact of regular use of a consumer-grade FODMAP-targeting digestive enzyme blend called FODZYME® on gastrointestinal symptoms in adults who experience self-reported bloating. The study focuses on how this enzyme blend affects symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain, which are often triggered by fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs. This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial that aims to provide a more flexible alternative to the restrictive Low FODMAP Diet by breaking down FODMAPs before they ferment in the colon. Participants will take the enzyme blend or a placebo with each meal, snack, or substantial beverage, applying it directly to their food. The trial is divided into two main periods: half the participants will start with the enzyme blend for four weeks followed by a two-week washout and then switch to placebo for another four weeks; the other half start with placebo and then switch to the enzyme blend after the washout. The study product is designed to target specific FODMAPs like fructan, GOS, and lactose and is intended for adults with or without IBS symptoms. During the study, participants will complete daily questionnaires and assessments over about 19 weeks, including patient-reported outcome measures for bloating, gastrointestinal symptoms, abdominal pain, food-related quality of life, and anxiety. The study is conducted remotely, allowing participants to complete assessments at home using a smartphone app. Safety is monitored by excluding those with known allergies to corn or previous reactions to digestive enzyme supplements, and researchers will review changes in bloating symptoms as the primary outcome.

Researchers are evaluating the safety, tolerance, and side effects of brenipatide (LY3537031) in adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Diarrhea (IBS-D). This Phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aims to compare brenipatide given under the skin with a placebo to assess its safety and effectiveness in treating IBS-D symptoms. The study is sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company and will last approximately 35 weeks. Participants will receive either brenipatide or a placebo via subcutaneous (under the skin) injections. The study includes two groups: one receiving the experimental drug LY3537031 and the other receiving a placebo, both administered in the same way. The treatment period and follow-up will be conducted over several weeks to evaluate the drug's impact on IBS-D symptoms. During the study, participants will record their symptoms daily using an electronic diary, focusing on abdominal pain and stool consistency. The main outcome measured is the percentage of days participants experience a significant improvement in their symptoms during weeks 9 to 16. Researchers will also monitor safety, side effects, and other symptom responses throughout the 24-week period. The study includes careful assessment of IBS-D criteria and symptom severity to evaluate treatment effects over time.

Researchers are evaluating SER-155, an experimental live bacterial therapeutic, as a first treatment option for people experiencing diarrhea due to immunotherapy-related enterocolitis (irEC). The study is a phase 1, open-label trial focused on assessing the safety and initial effectiveness of SER-155 in this group. This research is sponsored by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and aims to find out if SER-155 causes few or mild side effects when used as a first treatment for irEC. Participants with grade 2-3 diarrhea from irEC who have not yet received immunosuppressive therapy for their condition will take SER-155 orally. This therapy consists of 16 unique bacterial strains encapsulated for oral use. The study will monitor participants over time to observe safety and preliminary efficacy, including responses and remission without the need for immunosuppressive drugs at days 15 and 43, as well as tracking the presence of SER-155 strains in stool samples. During the study, participants will be evaluated for treatment-related adverse events for up to one year. Researchers will also assess their clinical response and remission status at specific time points, monitor bacterial strain levels, and record the time to response or remission without immunosuppressive therapy. Participants will provide informed consent and comply with study protocols, including swallowing oral medication and using contraception if applicable. The total participation duration includes assessments up to one year after treatment begins.