The Gut Microbiome and Serum Metabolites As a Biological Mechanism Underlying Pain in Kidney Transplantation

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · Jan 4, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how the gut microbiome, which is the collection of bacteria and other microbes in our digestive system, and certain substances in the blood (called serum metabolites) might help explain why many kidney transplant patients experience chronic pain. After a kidney transplant, about 47% of patients report ongoing pain, which can lead to feelings of fatigue, depression, and anxiety, making it hard for them to enjoy life. The researchers want to understand how changes in diet, stress, and the gut microbiome after transplantation relate to pain. They will look at these factors over time to see how they interact and potentially influence pain levels in kidney transplant recipients.

To participate in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and receiving a kidney transplant at the University of Illinois Hospital. You should also be able to understand the study and agree to participate in writing. However, certain individuals, such as those on high doses of steroids or with specific health conditions, may not be eligible. Participants can expect to provide information about their pain levels, diet, and stress, and the study aims to identify ways to better manage pain for kidney transplant patients in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Receiving a kidney transplant at the University of Illinois Hospital \& Health Sciences System (UI Health) Transplant Center at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC),
• • 18 years of age or older (adult), and
• • Understand the study process and provide written informed consent to participate.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Having taken systemic antimicrobials (except prophylactic penicillin) in the preceding 4 weeks.
• • Having received a previous solid organ transplant.
• • History of colon cancer or of an inflammatory bowel disease.
• • Planning to receive a multiorgan transplant (e.g., simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant).
• • Having a history of Clostridium difficile infection in the preceding 8 weeks.