Gut Microbiome Changes During Chemotherapy for Metastatic or Irresectable Colorectal Cancer A Prospective Multicenter Study by University Medical Center Groningen

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the changes and characteristics of the gut microbiome during chemotherapy in patients with metastatic or irresectable colorectal cancer (CRC). The study aims to explore how the gut microbiome relates to the effects of chemotherapy, as current treatments have limited overall survival and significant side effects. Understanding the microbiome could help improve treatment selection and effectiveness for CRC patients undergoing systemic anti-tumor therapy. Participants will collect fecal samples at home before starting treatment and three months after treatment begins, coinciding with response evaluations. They will also fill out questionnaires about factors that might affect the microbiome, such as antibiotic or proton pump inhibitor use. Additionally, blood samples will be collected before treatment and three months later for storage and analysis. Treatments include any combination of chemotherapy with or without anti-VEGF or anti-EGFR therapy. During the study, researchers will monitor changes in the gut microbiome and evaluate the patients' response to chemotherapy over two years. Outcome measures include prediction of response to conventional systemic anti-tumor therapy. Participants must provide informed consent and comply with study procedures, including sample collection and questionnaires. The study focuses on improving understanding of the microbiome's role in treatment outcomes and safety in metastatic or irresectable CRC.

Gut Microbiome Dynamics in Metastasized or Irresectable Colorectal Cancer