Identifying genetic causes of bladder pain syndrome
Official title: Genetic Studies in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS)
Run by Boston Children's Hospital · NCT00389142 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find out if there are genetic reasons behind bladder pain syndrome by collecting DNA and health information from people who have it and their families.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 1 Year and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Boston Children's Hospital Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 15, 2006 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2030 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | December 16, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT00389142 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with IC/BPS and their family members, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with major structural urinary tract abnormalities or those with underlying conditions affecting the urinary tract 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 study aims to uncover the genetic factors associated with interstitial cystitis (IC) and bladder pain syndrome (BPS) by collecting genetic material and medical information from affected individuals and their family members. Participants will provide DNA samples through blood or saliva, as well as urine samples and complete questionnaires. The research will utilize advanced genetic technologies, including genome sequencing and linkage analysis, to explore potential hereditary links to the condition. The ultimate goal is to identify genetic causes that could lead to more effective treatments for IC/BPS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of genetic markers for IC/BPS, paving the way for targeted therapies and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the genetic basis of IC/BPS is not extensively studied, similar genetic investigations in other conditions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of IC/BPS * Males and females of any age * Urinary frequency - more than 1X/hour, and/or * Dysuria, and/or * Pelvic, suprapubic, or abdominal pain - for 3 months or longer * Nocturia * Normal urinary stream (by history) * No evidence of active bacterial UTI (no pyuria \& negative urinary culture for last 3 months) * First degree relative of someone with above symptoms Exclusion Criteria: * Major structural/anatomical urinary tract abnormalities by ultrasound * Underlying inborn conditions affecting the urinary tract * Surgery/chemotherapy affected pelvic area * GI or GU cancers * Severe Constipation in children only
Where it's running
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Boston Children's Hospital (BCH)
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Catherine Brownstein, Ph.D. — Boston Children's Hosptial
- Study coordinator: Elicia A Estrella, MS, LCGC
- Email: elicia.estrella@childrens.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-919-4552
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Evaluating a catheter-free method for bladder medication delivery
This study is testing a new way to deliver bladder medication without a catheter to see if it’s more comfortable and safer for people with conditions like interstitial cystitis and recurrent urinary tract infections.
-
Treatment of bladder pain using VNX001
This study is testing a new treatment called VNX001 to see if it can help people with moderate to severe bladder pain feel better.
-
Acupuncture for treating bladder pain syndrome in women
This study is testing if acupuncture, along with some behavior changes, can help women with bladder pain syndrome feel better when other treatments haven't worked.
-
Assessing pain types in treating bladder pain syndrome
This study is trying to see how different types of bladder pain affect how well people with bladder pain syndrome respond to pelvic floor physical therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
-
Evaluating VNX001 for bladder pain relief in patients with interstitial cystitis
This study is testing if a new treatment called VNX001 can help relieve bladder pain in people with interstitial cystitis better than its individual ingredients or a placebo.
-
PEMF therapy for women with bladder pain syndrome
This study is testing if a new non-invasive treatment using pulsed electromagnetic fields can help women with bladder pain syndrome feel less pain and improve their urinary symptoms.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.