Research on the causes of fatigue in cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome

Pathophysiology of Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) and Chronic Fatigue (CFS/ME) by Lipidomics, Metabolomics, Microbiome and Exome Analysis and Investigation of Clinical Improvement Under Administration of Probiotics

Not applicable Interventional Universität des Saarlandes · NCT03773003

This study is testing the causes of fatigue in cancer patients and those with chronic fatigue syndrome, while also seeing if probiotics can help reduce their tiredness.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversität des Saarlandes Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Homburg, Saarland)
Trial IDNCT03773003 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the underlying causes of Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) by analyzing lipidomics, metabolomics, microbiomes, and exomes in patients with tumor diseases. Participants will be compared to age- and gender-matched control groups to identify differences in these biological markers. Additionally, the study will explore the potential benefits of probiotics in alleviating fatigue symptoms through a double-blinded, placebo-controlled approach. The research aims to provide insights into the pathophysiology of these conditions and evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with confirmed tumor diseases who are indicated for chemotherapy and willing to provide written consent.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic-inflammatory bowel disease or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from cancer-related fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored similar approaches to understanding fatigue syndromes, but this specific combination of methodologies is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* histologically, cytologically or radiologically confirmed tumor disease
* indication for chemotherapy
* Written consent to participation

Exclusion Criteria:

* chronic-inflammatory bowel disease
* pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Homburg, Saarland

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 Cancer Related FatigueFatigue Syndrome, ChronicCancer Fatigue, Chronic Fatigue
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.