Investigating how social experiences and demographics affect immune cell function
Perceived Discrimination, Geography, and Demographic Effects on Immune Cell Function and Regulation
This study is testing how social experiences, like feeling excluded, affect the immune system in people from different ethnic backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 480 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Morgan State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06519487 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the relationship between social experiences, particularly perceived discrimination, and immune cell function among different ethnic groups. Participants will engage in a virtual game called Cyberball, which simulates social exclusion, while their immune responses will be measured through blood samples and genomic analysis. The research aims to understand how factors like geography and ethnicity influence inflammatory responses and immune regulation. By manipulating social experiences in a controlled environment, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that link discrimination to immune system dysregulation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, or Hispanic individuals aged 18 and older living within 25 miles of specific universities.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, or Hispanic, or those under 18 years old will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases influenced by social factors.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study is novel, previous research has indicated that social experiences can impact immune responses, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Non-Hispanic Black, Non-Hispanic White, or Hispanic * At least 18 years of age * Lives within 25 miles of, works, or attends Morgan State University, The University of Baltimore or Texas Christian University Exclusion Criteria: * Anyone not identifying as either non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, or Hispanic, * Under 18 years old * Does not live within 25 miles of, works, or attends Morgan State University, the University of Baltimore or Texas Christian University
Where this trial is running
Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations
- Morgan State University — Baltimore, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)
- Texas Christian University — Fort Worth, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ingrid Tulloch K tulloch, PhD
- Email: ingrid.tulloch@morgan.edu
- Phone: 4438852276
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.