Research on the causes of fatigue in cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome
Official title: 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
Run by Universität des Saarlandes · NCT03773003 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Universität des Saarlandes Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Homburg, Saarland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 20, 2021 |
| Main results expected | July 1, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | May 29, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT03773003 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include patients with confirmed tumor diseases who are indicated for chemotherapy and willing to provide written consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with chronic-inflammatory bowel disease or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have explored similar approaches to understanding fatigue syndromes, but this specific combination of methodologies is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Saarland University Medical Center
Homburg, Saarland, Germany Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael Jelden, MD — University Hospital, Saarland
- Study coordinator: Michael Jelden, MD
- Email: michael.jelden@uks.eu
- Phone: +4968411630000
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.