Identifying genetic causes of bladder pain syndrome
Genetic Studies in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS)
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Ages | 1 Year and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Boston Children's Hospital Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT00389142 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with IC/BPS and their family members, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- 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
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.