Clinical Research Directory

Goat Milk-Derived Formula vs. Undiluted Goat Milk in Infants Unable to Exclusively Breastfeed: Growth and Biomarker Analysis

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if Goat Milk-Derived Formula Alternatives (GMDFA) are safe and effective for infants who are unable to be exclusively breastfed. It will also study growth patterns, biological markers, and gut microbiome differences among infants receiving GMDFA, undiluted goat milk, or breast milk. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Do infants receiving GMDFA show similar growth patterns to those who are breastfed? 2. Are biological markers of gut health and nutrition (such as calprotectin, lipocalin-2, CRP, and claudin) comparable between the groups? 3. How do feeding types (GMDFA, goat milk, or breast milk) influence the infant gut microbiome composition, metabolic pathways, and lipid profiles? 4. Is GMDFA a safe and nutritionally adequate feeding option for infants unable to be exclusively breastfed? We will compare GMDFA, undiluted goat milk, and breast milk (reference group) to evaluate infant growth, gut health, and metabolic outcomes. Participants will: Be randomly assigned to one of three feeding groups: GMDFA, undiluted goat milk, or breastfed Attend regular follow-up visits for growth measurements and sample collection (blood, stool, and breast milk where applicable) Have feeding practices monitored and recorded through caregiver interviews and feeding logs Additional Analyses: Microbiome analysis: to identify gut bacterial diversity and composition across feeding groups Metagenomic analysis: to explore functional genes and metabolic pathways related to nutrition and gut health Lipidomic analysis: to assess differences in lipid and fatty acid profiles in breast milk, goat milk, and infant samples

Wild Blueberries for Gut, Brain, and Heart Health in Adults With High Blood Pressure

The purpose of the study is to determine the effectiveness of wild blueberries on cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and gut microbiota composition in non-Hispanic Black and White adults with elevated blood pressure.

Microbiome and Diet in Parkinson's Disease

The goal of this pilot study is to examine the feasibility and effects of an 18-month intervention diet compared to an active control diet (standard diet) in those living with Parkinson's Disease (PD), without dementia. Research has shown that eating components of Mediterranean diets are associated with a 30% lower risk to develop PD and a 40% lower mortality rate in those living with PD. Diet may influence the gut and microbiomes, thus may affect PD risk and progression. This study will examine how easy it will be to adhere to a certain type of diet for 18 months and what changes may occur in the gut microbiome and in PD symptoms on a specific diet during that time. The study will involve in-person study visits at UBC as well as online diet coaching sessions and online group cooking classes over Zoom. This is a randomized study, meaning that participants will be assigned by chance to either the Mediterranean-style diet group or the standard diet group for the duration of the 18 months. This pilot study will also examine recruitment rates and retention, in order to prepare for a larger future study.

Impact of Training Load on the Gut miCrobiome And Its Relation to exeRcise Performance, mUscle Phenotype, and markerS of Overreaching in Healthy Men

The goal of this study is to learn how different amounts of supervised indoor cycling training change gut health (gut bacteria, the substances gut bacteria make, and the gut barrier integrity), and how these changes relate to changes in fitness, muscle health, and signs of doing too much training (a state called 'overreaching'). The study includes healthy, recreationally active men aged 18 to 45 years. The primary questions, for which the study is powered (sufficient participants included), are: 1. Does moderate load training change blood and faecal levels of butyrate (a short-chain fatty acid made by gut bacteria) after eight weeks compared with a control group? 2. Compared to moderate load training, do higher training loads lead to different responses in blood and faecal levels of butyrate? Researchers will compare: * A control group that does not complete structured training; * A moderate-load training group that completes eight weeks of supervised cycling (4x/week); * A high-load training group that completes four weeks of moderate-load training followed by four weeks of higher training load (twice the number of training sessions). Participants will: * Be randomly assigned to one of the three groups; * Complete 8 weeks of supervised indoor cycling sessions if assigned to a training group; * Complete four study assessment periods (baseline, after week four, after week eight, and after a short taper (rest period); * Provide blood, stool, skeletal muscle, urine, saliva, and breath samples during the assessment periods; * Complete fitness and performance tests and questionnaires during the assessment periods.

Effect of Prebiotics in Saudi Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

This study will explore how a natural food ingredient called oligofructose affects blood glucose levels, lipid profiles, inflammation biomarkers, and gut bacteria in Saudi adults with type 2 diabetes. Oligofructose is a type of dietary fiber found in foods such as onions, garlic, and bananas. It is known to help the growth of "good" bacteria in the intestine, which may improve digestion and metabolism. A total of 100 adults (50 with type 2 diabetes and 50 without diabetes) will take part in this research. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either oligofructose or a placebo twice daily for 12 weeks. Blood tests will be done at the beginning and at weeks 4, 8, and 12 to check changes in blood glucose, lipid profiles, and inflammation. The goal of this study is to find out whether adding oligofructose to the diet can help people with diabetes improve their blood glucose control, reduce inflammation, and support a healthier balance of gut bacteria.

Understanding the Efficacy of Dietary Supplement on Fungal Mycobiota in Healthy Volunteers: A Pilot Study

The purpose of this study is to explore how the dietary supplement L-Phenylalanine affects the production of the metabolite phenylpropionic acid (PPA) and changes fungal populations of the gut microbiome.

Flourish: Exploring the Early Infant Gut Microbiome

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether microbiome analysis, education, and personalized recommendations can improve gut health and reduce early markers of immune-related conditions in infants aged 0-3 months delivered via Cesarean section. The study aims to determine whether these interventions can increase beneficial bacteria, decrease C-section-associated microbiome signatures, reduce opportunistic pathogens, and improve functional potential for HMO digestion and SCFA production. The study also seeks to assess whether improvements in microbiome composition are associated with a reduced prevalence of early atopic symptoms. Researchers will compare three groups: a full intervention arm that receives microbiome reports, coaching, personalized recommendations, and educational materials; a limited intervention arm that receives simplified reports and basic recommendations; and a control arm that receives no results until study completion. This design allows evaluation of both a comprehensive intervention and a more scalable, minimal-results model. Participants will: 1. Provide six microbiome stool samples over a 24-month period. 2. Provide additional small stool samples at two timepoints for exploratory metabolomic analysis. 3. Receive microbiome reports and guidance according to their assigned study arm. 4. Complete surveys on infant health history, symptoms, diet, and environmental exposures. 5. Participate in standardized eczema assessment(s) administered by a Nurse Practitioner and evaluated by a Pediatric Allergy Specialist if any symptoms are reported. This study seeks to demonstrate that targeted microbiome support can positively shift gut microbial development in C-section infants and may reduce risks linked to the early stages of the atopic march. Findings may inform scalable strategies for delivering microbiome-based support in early life and improve long-term health outcomes for this high-risk population.

Mediterranean Diet Uptake and Nutrition on Child Health, Inflammation, and Early-life Symbiosis (MUNCHIES) Study

Toddlerhood (ages 2-3) is a critical window when the gut microbiome is still developing and eating habits are being established. Yet, many Canadian toddlers eat diets high in sugar and salt, which may affect long-term health. This study will test whether a MED diet can improve dietary inflammation, gut health, and body composition in toddlers and whether a tailored nutrition education program for parents can help families maintain healthy eating patterns. In this study, toddlers will be randomly assigned to a 3-week MED diet or their usual diet. Families in the MED diet group will receive free meal boxes for the 3 weeks, plus guidance from a nutrition researcher through a structured education program. The standard diet group will continue their regular diet with general nutrition advice. Researchers will collect dietary information, body composition assessments, and stool samples to measure gut microbiome composition and metabolites. This first study of a controlled diet intervention in toddlers, combining behavioral support, high-quality food provision, and advanced gut microbiome analysis, will help understand how early diet shapes lifelong eating habits and health, guiding public health strategies and precision nutrition approaches to prevent chronic disease from early life.

Effects of Mango or Low-Fat Cookie Consumption on Gut Health, and Its Relationship With Mental, Sexual and Skin Health

The objective of the proposed research is to determine the effects of fresh mango consumption on gut microbiome, and its relationship with skin health, sexual and mental health in relatively healthy adults.

Blackcurrants Modify Gut Microbiota and Reduce Osteoporosis Risk in Postmenopausal Females

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effects of blackcurrant (BC) supplementation on changes in bone density and gut microbiome composition in postmenopausal females.

Fecal Microbiota Transplant National Registry

A national data registry of patients receiving fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) or other gut-related-microbiota products designed to prospectively assess short and long-term safety and effectiveness

Curcumin and Retinal Study

To test how two weeks of curcumin supplementation would cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) and attach to amyloid beta proteins, to assess the feasibility (safety and bioavailability), and to explore the resulting abundance/composition of gut microbiota.

Effect of Antifungals on the Intestinal Microbiome - a Randomized, Controlled, Proof-of-concept Trial

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn how the antifungal drug fluconazole affects the gut microbiome and immune system in healthy volunteers. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does fluconazole change the gut bacteriome and mycobiome composition after 14 days of treatment? * How long do these changes last (4 weeks and 6 months after treatment)? * Does fluconazole affect the body's immune responses, such as blood cell activity and antifungal antibodies? Researchers will compare two groups: participants who take fluconazole for 14 days and participants who receive no intervention. Participants will: * Either take one fluconazole tablet (200 mg) daily for 14 days, or receive no treatment * Provide stool samples and blood samples at several timepoints * Return for follow-up visits up to 6 months after treatment This study is conducted at Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, with a planned enrollment of 50 healthy male volunteers aged 18-35 years.

Impact of Gut Microbiome on Metabolic and Bowel Function During the First Year After Spinal Cord Injury

The Investigators will recruit 35 participants with acute SCI (within 6 weeks of injury) Fasting blood collection and bowel function survey will be conducted 3 times: at baseline \[within 6 weeks of injury\], 6, and 12 months after SCI. Stool will be collected for gut microbiome analysis 3 times.

Feasibility and Potential Efficacy of Herbs and Spices for Improving Dietary Quality in College Students: A Pilot Study

The goal of this single-arm feasibility, pilot study is to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effectiveness of the Herbs and Spices Nutrition Education Program (HSNP-focusing on incorporating herbs and spices into the diet for adherence to the DGA's) for determining the scalability of implementing this intervention for a larger scale, more comprehensive study The main questions it aims to answer are: * What is the feasibility and acceptability of incorporating herbs and spices into the diet along with DGA-focused nutrition education through the HSNP in college students with poor dietary quality? * What are the preliminary effects of the HSNP on dietary intake/quality, cardiometabolic, and gut health in college students with poor dietary quality? * What are the barriers associated with HSNP implementation in college students with poor dietary quality? Participants will: * Be asked to come to the study site initially for a Screening Study Visit to confirm eligibility. * Be asked to come the clinical study site for a Pre-HSNP and Post-HSNP Study Visit (one week prior starting the HSNP and after week 6 of completing the HSNP) for assessments of cardiometabolic and gut health. * Be asked to come to the Nutrition Center for weeks 0 and 3 of the HSNP, where they will receive education on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the health benefits of herbs and spices, have a sensory evaluation of foods, be provided budget-friendly recipes and resources, and given take-home herbs, spices, and supporting materials * Be asked to complete 3-Day Food Records throughout the 6 week study period for assessment of dietary quality (4 total)

Impact of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) on the Gut Microbiota in Patients With Aortic Valve Stenosis

This study investigates the impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on the composition and function of the gut microbiota in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis. The improvement in haemodynamics following TAVI may positively influence gut microbial balance by increasing splanchnic perfusion and reducing intestinal congestion. A total of 40 patients undergoing TAVI at the "Hippokration" General Hospital of Athens will be enrolled, with the aim of analysing stool and blood samples before and after the procedure. The primary endpoint is the change in gut microbiota composition two months post-TAVI, assessed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Secondary endpoints include changes in serum TMAO levels and their association with the severity of aortic stenosis and post-procedural valve haemodynamics. Data will be collected at two timepoints (1 month up to 1 day pre-TAVI and 3 to 4 months post-TAVI), along with dietary questionnaires to account for potential confounding factors. This observational study aims to highlight the potential relationship between cardiac function and the gut microbiome, offering new perspectives for targeted therapeutic strategies in cardiovascular disease.

Enhanced Nutritional Optimization in LVAD Trial

The goal of this clinical trial is to assess whether a peri-operative intervention with nutritional immune modulating intervention (Ensure Surgery Immunonutrition shake) has beneficial effects on the complex interplay between gut microbiome, systemic inflammation and malnutrition that is commonly present in advanced heart failure and the adverse events associated with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement in hospitalized advanced heart failure patients awaiting LVAD implantation. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Will pre-surgical supplementation with Ensure Surgery affect gut microbial composition and levels of inflammation among heart failure patients undergoing LVAD implantation? * Will pre-surgical supplementation with Ensure Surgery affect post-surgical morbidity (e.g., infections, intensive care unit length of stay (LOS)) and mortality? Participants will be evaluated for malnutrition and will be given Ensure Surgery Immunonutrition shake to drink in the days preceding their LVAD surgery. Blood and stool samples will be collected at prespecified timepoints before and after surgery. Researchers will compare malnourished participants drinking Ensure Surgery 3/day with well-nourished participants randomized to drink either 1/day or 3/day to see if any of the above supplementation strategies change the gut microbial composition, levels of inflammation, and post-surgical morbidity and mortality.

Effects of Complementary Feeding on Infant Growth and Gut Health

This study plans to learn more about how consuming different foods during the time of early complementary feeding (\~5 to 12 months) affects growth and the development of bacteria living inside your baby's gut through school-age. The results from this study will potentially help to support future recommendations and dietary guidance for infant feeding practices. The three primary aims include: Aim 1. Identify the impact of dietary patterns with different protein-rich foods on infant growth. Aim 2. Identify the impact of dietary patterns with different protein-rich foods on infant gut microbiota development. Aim 3. Identify gut microbial taxa and genes that affect infant growth.

Gut Microbe Composition, Exercise, and Breast Breast Cancer Survivors

The primary goal of this project is to determine the effects of exercise on the gut microbiome in breast cancer survivors and determine how these changes may relate to psychosocial symptoms such as fatigue.

Impact of Different Types of Higher Dietary Protein Intake on Sleep Quality in Singapore Older Adults

Today, insufficient sleep has become a growing global problem. Sleep is essential to health and changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process. Inadequate and low-quality sleep also increases the risk for age-related cognitive decline and disease conditions. More importantly, due to COVID-19 health emergency, there is a significant increase of psychological distress and symptoms of mental illness and a worsening of quality of sleep. Therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate the way of improving sleep quality, in particular during and post COVID-19 period, in older adults. One of the possible strategies in improving sleep quality with lifestyle modification is having higher-protein diet. However, this effect has not been fully elucidated in older adults. In addition, the effect of type of dietary protein on sleep quality is inconclusive and there is no clinical trial which assessed the differential response in sleep quality between animal-sourced protein vs. plant-sourced protein. Therefore, the purpose of this research project is to assess the impact of different types of higher dietary protein intake on sleep quality in Singapore older adults. Findings from the proposed research will provide the scientific evidence of the beneficial effects of regularly consuming higher-protein diet on sleep quality in Singapore older adults. In addition, this research may validate the differential effect of different type of dietary protein on sleep quality. The results from the proposed research will also assist a practical guidance of nutritional behaviour changes providing sleep promoting effects to a large proportion of the Singapore population.

Early Avocado Exposure on Development and the Gut Microbiome in American Hispanic Infants

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if daily avocado intake can improve growth and brain and gut health in infants. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does daily eating of avocados change which microbes live in the infant's gut? Does daily avocado intake improve infant motor skills and cognitive development? Researchers will compare avocado intake to standard of care (no or limited avocado intake) to see if regular avocado intake from 6-12 months of life influences gut and brain health. Participating mothers/guardians and their infants will: Parents will provide avocado or no avocado to their infant every day for 6 months starting around 6 months of infant age. Parents will allow study staff to visit participant homes to collect data via surveys and observations and measure infant growth. Parents will swab soiled infant diapers for gut microbe measures. Parents will keep a diary of the infant's avocado consumption and acceptance of the food. Parents will record their infant's dietary intake

The Effect Cranberry-Based Products on the Female Microbiome

The overall objective of this clinical trial is to compare the effects of a cranberry-based product to a placebo-control product on vaginal and GI microbiome outcomes and associated participant reported outcomes in generally healthy pre-menopausal women

How a Single Workout Affects Gut Bugs in Women With Different Fitness Levels and Body Types

This study aims to elucidate the differences in the gut microbiome functional activity and metabolome in adult premenopausal women with distinctive fitness levels and BMIs (with obesity, w/o obesity). The specific aims are as follows: * Aim 1: To examine the effects of acute aerobic exercise at 60-70% heart rate reserve (HRRmax) for 30 minutes bout on changes in the abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria and their functional downstream metabolic activity. * Aim 2: To examine the effects of acute aerobic exercise at 60-70% HRRmax 30-minute bout on changes in GM-released SCFA concentrations in stool and plasmatic metabolome.

Effects of Milk-based Drinks on Gut Microbiome, Sleep and Cardiometabolic Markers

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of kefir on gastrointestinal health, sleep quality, and biochemical parameters in adults who have sleep problems. Further measurements of cognitive function, arterial stiffness and blood pressure will also be assessed. The following questions will be addressed during the study: 1. What effect does repeated ingestion of kefir have on the gut microbiome and can this positively influence sleep performance (quality and duration) in adults with sleep problems? 2. Does repeated ingestion of kefir impact LDL, triacyglycerols and non-HDLc in adults with sleep problems? 3. What effect does repeated ingestion of kefir have on cognitive function and mood? 4. What effect does repeated ingestion of kefir have on vascular function, inflammation and markers of immunity in adults with sleep problems? In a randomised, crossover design study, participants will consume 250 ml of kefir (original flavour) or milk for 4 weeks with a 4-week washout.