Exploring the link between the eye's microbiome and immune system in dry eye disease
Associations of the Ocular Microbiome and the Immune System in Dry Eye Disease
This study looks at the eye's bacteria and immune system in people with and without dry eye disease to see how they might be connected and what could help improve symptoms.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bern) |
| Trial ID | NCT04658238 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to characterize the ocular microbiome and the local immune system in individuals with and without dry eye disease. By comparing these two groups, the study seeks to identify differences in the ocular microbiome and immune responses that may contribute to the development of dry eye disease. The researchers hypothesize that dysbiosis of the ocular microbiome could lead to chronic inflammation, impacting the mucosal immune system and exacerbating dry eye symptoms. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of dry eye disease and potential new avenues for treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older, both with and without dry eye disease.
Not a fit: Patients who have recently used systemic or topical antibiotics or have undergone ocular surgery in the past three months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of dry eye disease, potentially offering new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of the ocular microbiome in eye health is an emerging field, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding the microbiome's impact on various diseases.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Willing to sign informed consent * 18 years of age or older Exclusion Criteria: * Not willing or able to sign informed consent * Younger than 18 years * Recent (3 month) history of use of systemic and/or topical antibiotics * Usage of medical eye drops (Lacrycon and other moisturizing eye drops are allowed) * Recent (3 month) history of ocular surgery
Where this trial is running
Bern
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital — Bern, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Martin Zinkernagel, Prof. Dr. Dr. — Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital
- Study coordinator: Martin Zinkernagel, Prof. Dr. Dr.
- Email: martin.zinkernagel@insel.ch
- Phone: +41 31 632 95 65
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.