Exploring how visiting green areas affects the human microbiome
Transfer of Microorganisms Between Green Areas and Humans
NA · Universiteit Antwerpen · NCT06574724
This study is testing whether spending time in green spaces can change the bacteria on our skin and in our noses for both kids and adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Universiteit Antwerpen (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Antwerp) |
| Trial ID | NCT06574724 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of visiting green areas on the human microbiome by analyzing microbial transfer. Participants, including children and adults, will visit a designated green space and engage in activities while providing microbiome samples before and after their visit. The study also aims to identify environmental, health, and lifestyle factors that may influence changes in the microbiome. By collecting swabs from participants' skin and nose, along with questionnaires, researchers hope to establish a connection between nature exposure and microbiome composition.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include children aged 4 and older and adults in generally good health.
Not a fit: Patients with severe health conditions that limit their ability to visit green areas may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how nature exposure influences human health and immune function.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of microbiome changes due to environmental exposure is being explored, this specific approach of linking green area visits to microbiome analysis is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: Children (min. 4 years old) and adult participants (18+) of any gender in generally good health. No strict exclusion criteria will be set in advance.
Where this trial is running
Antwerp
- Universiteit Antwerpen — Antwerp, Belgium (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Irina Spacova, Prof. — Universiteit Antwerpen
- Study coordinator: Irina Spacova, Prof.
- Email: irina.spacova@uantwerpen.be
- Phone: +32 3 265 32 89
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.
Conditions: Microbial Colonization, green areas, nature, microbiome, biodiversity, sequencing