Investigating the role of gut bacteria in Crohn's disease inflammation

Investigating the Relationship Between Inflammation and Proteolytic Activity from Mucosa-associated Microbiota in Crohn's Disease Patients

Observational McMaster University · NCT06503081

This study is trying to see how changes in gut bacteria might affect inflammation in people with Crohn's disease to help improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorMcMaster University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hamilton, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT06503081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between altered gut microbiota and inflammation in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). It focuses on characterizing the proteolytic activity associated with mucosal inflammation and how this may be modulated by bacteria that produce protease inhibitors, such as serpins. Patients aged 18 to 70 with a confirmed diagnosis of CD will undergo routine white light colonoscopy to assess disease activity and extent. The study seeks to understand the mechanisms behind increased proteolytic activity in CD and its implications for treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 70 with a confirmed diagnosis of Crohn's disease requiring a colonoscopy.

Not a fit: Patients with serious life-threatening co-morbidities or those who have taken antibiotics or probiotics recently may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing Crohn's disease by targeting gut microbiota.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in inflammatory bowel diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be aged between 18 - 70 years old
* Have a confirmed diagnosis of Crohn's disease
* Have a clinical indication for standard, white light colonoscopy to assess disease activity and extent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to provide written informed consent
* Presence of serious life-threatening co-morbidities
* Evidence of toxic megacolon, jaundice, cirrhosis, renal dysfunction, acute GI bleeding
* History of difficult colonoscopy, strictures or extensive diverticulosis
* Antibiotics in the last month
* Probiotics in the last week

Where this trial is running

Hamilton, Ontario

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 Crohn's Disease of Both Small and Large IntestineProteolytic activitySerpinCrohn's disease
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.