Exploring how fasting affects autophagy in different health conditions
The Kinetics of Autophagy During Periodic Fasting in Healthy People and Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis or Metabolic Syndrome - an Exploratory Clinical Study
This study is testing how fasting affects a process in our cells that might help people with chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and metabolic syndrome, as well as healthy volunteers.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Charite University, Berlin, Germany Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Berlin) |
| Trial ID | NCT04739852 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of fasting on autophagy, a cellular process that may play a role in treating chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and metabolic syndrome. Participants, including both patients with these conditions and healthy volunteers, will undergo a fasting regimen based on the Buchinger Wilhelmi method, which involves a strict caloric restriction over a minimum of 10 days. The study aims to compare the kinetics of autophagy and associated metabolic and inflammatory changes between the two groups. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to provide insights into the therapeutic potential of fasting.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic syndrome, or healthy volunteers willing to participate in a fasting program.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive disorders, those who are pregnant or lactating, or individuals participating in other clinical trials may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide new insights into fasting as a therapeutic approach for chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for fasting therapy in rheumatoid arthritis, indicating potential for success in this exploratory study.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * One of the following diagnoses: rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic syndrome OR healthy volunteer * Beginning (first 24h) inpatient treatment or hospital stay at Immanuel Hospital Berlin, Department of Naturopathy OR healthy volunteer * Present written declaration of consent Exclusion Criteria: * Insufficient linguistic communication * Dementia or other cognitive disorder * Pregnancy or lactation * Simultaneous participation in another clinical trial
Where this trial is running
Berlin
- Hochschulambulanz für Naturheilkunde der Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin am Immanuel-Krankenhaus — Berlin, Germany (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andreas Michalsen, Prof. Dr. — Charite - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
- Study coordinator: Nadine Sylvester
- Email: nadine.sylvester@immanuelalbertinen.de
- Phone: +4930 80505 734
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.