Exploring how farm microbes affect respiratory illnesses in children
Microbes and Respiratory Illnesses, The MARI Study
University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06059027
This study looks at how being around certain farm microbes might affect the respiratory health of children aged 4-12, including those with and without asthma, to see if it can help prevent respiratory infections and asthma flare-ups.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 350 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06059027 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The Microbes and Respiratory Illnesses (MARI) Study investigates the relationship between microbial exposure and respiratory health in children. It focuses on children aged 4-12 from different backgrounds, including those from Traditional agrarian communities, suburban children with asthma, and those without asthma. By analyzing nasal airway gene expression and microbial communities, the study aims to understand how early life exposure to certain microbes may influence susceptibility to respiratory infections and asthma exacerbations. This observational study will utilize metagenomic sequencing and other methodologies to identify patterns that could inform future interventions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include children aged 4-12 from Traditional agrarian communities, suburban children with asthma, suburban children without asthma, and those with active respiratory illnesses.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic sinusitis or those unable to comply with the study protocol may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new strategies for preventing respiratory illnesses and asthma in children by leveraging beneficial microbial exposure.
How similar studies have performed: While there is growing evidence supporting the role of nasal microbial communities in respiratory health, this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in similar studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Participant and/or parent guardian must be able to understand and provide informed consent 2. Children ages 4-12 years of age 3. Cohort 1: Family is self-identified as Traditional agrarian (TA) Community member 4. Cohort 2: Madison-area children with parental report of doctor-diagnosed asthma 5. Cohort 3: Madison-area children with no history of asthma by parental report 6. Cohort 4: Madison-area children who have an active respiratory illness Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability or unwillingness of a participant to give written informed consent or comply with study protocol 2. Chronic sinusitis (frequent sinus infections) 3. Plans to move out of the area before completing the study 4. Past or current medical problems or findings from physical examination or laboratory testing that are not listed above, which, in the opinion of the investigator, may pose additional risks from participation in the study, may interfere with the participant's ability to comply with study requirements or that may impact the quality or interpretation of the data obtained from the study 5. Enrolled family member
Where this trial is running
Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health — Madison, Wisconsin, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: James Gern, MD — UW Madison
- Study coordinator: Gina Crisafi, BS
- Email: gmc@medicine.wisc.edu
- Phone: 608-262-5240
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.