Clinical trial Recruiting at 2 sites Observational Ages 18 and up

Understanding biofilm infections in diabetic foot ulcers

Official title: Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) Biofilm Infection and Recurrence

Run by University of Pittsburgh · NCT05172089 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how biofilm infections in diabetic foot ulcers affect healing and whether they make wounds more likely to come back.

More Diabetic Foot trials

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment405 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh
Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Tucson, Arizona and 1 other locations)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 2, 2024
Main results expectedJune 27, 2028
Study endsJune 27, 2029
Registry record updatedMarch 18, 2026
Trial IDNCT05172089 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with an open diabetic foot ulcer and adequate arterial blood flow.

Probably not a fit

Patients with closed wounds, significant immunodeficiency, or those unable to comply with study procedures 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 observational study focuses on patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) to investigate the relationship between biofilm infections and wound healing. It aims to determine if DFUs with a history of biofilm infection exhibit deficient barrier function, as indicated by high trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and whether this deficiency is linked to increased rates of wound recurrence. The study will also explore the molecular mechanisms behind biofilm-induced loss of skin barrier integrity in DFU patients. By analyzing these factors, the research seeks to improve understanding and management of chronic wounds in diabetic patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for diabetic foot ulcers, reducing the risk of recurrence and amputations.

How similar studies have gone: While biofilm infections in chronic wounds have been studied, this specific approach focusing on functional wound closure in DFUs is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or Female, Age ≥ 18
* Willing to comply with protocol instructions, including all study visits and study activities.
* Patient with an open Diabetic Foot Ulcer
* Adequate arterial blood flow as evidenced by at least one of the following (for wounds below the knee):
* TcOM \>30 mmHg
* Ankle-brachial index at least ≥0.7
* Toe pressure \> 30 mmHg
* TBI \> 0.6 mmHg

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who are deemed unable to understand the procedures, risks, and benefits of the study.
* Wounds closed or to be surgically closed by flap or graft coverage
* Subjects with marked immunodeficiency (HIV/AIDS, or on immunosuppressive medications.
* TcOM \< 30mmHg
* Diabetics with a hemoglobin A1c \> 15 within 3 months prior to enrollment
* Subject with autoimmune connective tissue disease
* Ulcer size and location that does not allow the TEWL measurement per SOP
* Pregnant women
* Prisoners
* Unable to comply with study procedures and/or complete study visits

Where it's running

  • University of Arizona
    Tucson, Arizona, United States
    Recruiting
  • UPMC Wound Healing Services at UPMC Passavant
    Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Chandan K Sen, PhD — University of Pittsburgh
  • Study coordinator: Piya Das Ghatak, PhD, MS
  • Email: piya.dasghatak@pitt.edu
  • Phone: 4126240422

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.