Pilot Study of the Human Metagenome in Metabolic Diseases

Launched by SENGKANG GENERAL HOSPITAL · Apr 9, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, titled "Pilot Study of the Human Metagenome in Metabolic Diseases," is exploring how our body's microorganisms and their by-products might play a role in conditions like obesity and sarcopenia (which involves loss of muscle mass and strength). By examining samples such as stool, saliva, urine, and blood from participants, researchers hope to identify differences in these microorganisms and their metabolites (substances produced by metabolism) that could help in understanding these diseases better. This research could lead to more personalized treatment options in the future.

The trial is currently looking for participants aged 16 to 75, including those who are obese, those experiencing sarcopenia, and healthy individuals as a comparison group. To qualify as obese, participants must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 27.5, while those with sarcopenia need to show low strength or muscle mass. Healthy control participants should have a BMI under 27.5 and no signs of sarcopenia. If you choose to participate, you’ll provide various samples that will be tested for research purposes, helping scientists learn more about these health conditions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria (obese cohort):
• • Obese (BMI\>27.5kg/m2)
• Inclusion Criteria (sarcopenic cohort):
• • Sarcopenic patients, defined as 1) low handgrip strength (\<26 for males; \<18kg for females), AND/OR low gait speed (\<0.8m/s) AND low muscle mass (\<7.0kg/m2 for males; \<5.7kg/m2 for females)
• Inclusion Criteria (control cohort):
• • - Healthy subjects without sarcopenia, and not obese (BMI\<27.5kg/m2)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • No informed consent
• • Presence of intestinal stoma, hence inability to collect fecal samples