Exploring the gut microbiome's role in type 1 diabetes and metformin's effects

The Gut Microbiome in Lean and Overweight Youth With Type 1 Diabetes and Novel Mechanism of Action of Metformin

Phase 2 Interventional Indiana University · NCT05414409

This study is testing how the gut bacteria of obese teens with type 1 diabetes affects their condition and whether the diabetes drug metformin can help improve their health.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment114 (estimated)
Ages11 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorIndiana University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana)
Trial IDNCT05414409 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and type 1 diabetes (T1D) in obese youth aged 11-18. It aims to understand how the gut microbiome influences disease progression and the mechanisms through which metformin, a diabetes medication, may modify these effects. By comparing obese and lean youth with T1D, the study seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving management of the disease. The findings could provide insights into personalized treatment strategies for T1D patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are obese and lean youth aged 11-18 who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with monogenic forms of diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or those with certain gastrointestinal diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for type 1 diabetes in youth, particularly those who are obese.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of the gut microbiome in diabetes is an emerging field, this specific approach combining metformin and T1D in youth is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Overweight/obese youth 11-18 years of age with T1D at time of enrollment.
2. Lean youth 11-18 years of age with T1D at time of enrollment.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Known monogenic forms of diabetes or Type 2 diabetes (confirmed clinically and by genetic/antibody testing).
2. History of ongoing infection or antibiotic treatment within the past month;
3. History of immune-compromise, recurrent infections, steroid intake (inhaled or oral forms) or other immunosuppressant use in the past 6 months.
4. History of chronic gastrointestinal disease and active within the past 6 months, possible or confirmed celiac disease.
5. Participation in any research intervention trials within the past 3 months.
6. History of treatment or use of metformin, a type 2 diabetes medication.

Where this trial is running

Indianapolis, Indiana

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Type 1 DiabetesObesity
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.