Measuring nerve activity in intestinal biopsies from IBS patients and healthy individuals

Measuring Nerve Activity in Small Human Intestinal Biopsies in IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

Not applicable Interventional KU Leuven · NCT01912313

This study is testing a new way to look at nerve activity in the intestines of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and healthy individuals to better understand how their nervous systems work.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment99999999 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorKU Leuven Academic / other
Locations1 site (Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant)
Trial IDNCT01912313 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study involves taking rectal biopsies from individuals diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and healthy subjects. The biopsies will be used to isolate the submucosal plexus for live nerve recordings, calcium imaging, immunohistochemistry, and mRNA isolation. The primary goal is to advance understanding of the enteric nervous system in IBS by developing a unique method for live imaging of nerve activity in human intestinal biopsies. This innovative approach aims to provide insights that have not been previously reported in other research.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with IBS according to ROME III criteria and healthy subjects.

Not a fit: Patients with complaints unrelated to IBS will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of IBS and lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients.

How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel and has not been previously reported by other research groups.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* IBS patients (based on ROME III Criteria)
* Healthy subjects

Exclusion Criteria:

\- All subjects with not IBS related complaints

Where this trial is running

Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant

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 IBSHealthyIBS patientshealthy subjects
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.