Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Observational Ages 18 and up

Exploring how the gut microbiome affects giant cell arteritis

Official title: Investigation of the Influence of the Human Microbiome on the Pathogenesis and Recurrence Probability in Giant Cell Arteritis

Run by University of Bonn · NCT06279065 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how the bacteria in the gut might affect people with giant cell arteritis to see if they can find clues for better treatments.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment50 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Bonn
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedFebruary 29, 2024
Main results expectedFebruary 18, 2026
Study endsFebruary 2028
Registry record updatedMay 9, 2024
Trial IDNCT06279065 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with giant cell arteritis.

Probably not a fit

Patients with chronic infections, major gastrointestinal surgeries, or other specified exclusions may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the role of the human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiome, in the onset and progression of giant cell arteritis (GCA). It involves analyzing microbiome samples from patients diagnosed with GCA and healthy controls at the time of diagnosis and again after six months. The study aims to identify specific microbial communities that may influence the immune response related to GCA. By understanding these interactions, researchers hope to uncover potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new insights into the treatment and management of giant cell arteritis by targeting the microbiome.

How similar studies have gone: While the role of the microbiome in various diseases is being explored, this specific investigation into giant cell arteritis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Giant cell arteritis (only in one arm)

Exclusion Criteria:

* chronic infection (viral, fungi, bacteria) including human immunodeficiency viruses, Hepatitis B/C
* acute infection with usage of antibiotics less then 90 days before screening
* major gastro-intestinal surgery \<5 years from screening
* gastro-intestinal bleeding \<90 days before screening
* inflammatory bowel disease (confirmed bioptically)
* bulimia or anorexia nervosa
* adipositas (body mass index ≥ 40)
* intake of high dosage of probiotics (\>10\^9 colony forming units per day) \<90 days before screening
* not controlled Diabetes mellitus
* Malignancy within one year (except for squamous skin - and basal skin carcinoma without metastasis, cervix carcinoma with curative surgery, Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma)
* known abuse of alcohol oder drugs.

Where it's running

  • Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Department of Oncology, Haematology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Bonn
    Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
    Recruiting
  • University Hospital Bonn
    Bonn, Germany
    Recruiting

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.