Understanding the characteristics of superlean individuals and their gut microbiome

Study on the Phenotype and Gut Microbiome Composition of Healthy Superlean Individuals (BMI < 18.5)

Observational Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology ,Chinese Academy of Sciences · NCT05804929

This study looks at superlean individuals with a low BMI to see how their gut bacteria and other factors differ from those with a normal weight.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages25 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorShenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology ,Chinese Academy of Sciences Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shenzhen)
Trial IDNCT05804929 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to characterize the phenotype of superlean individuals, defined as those with a BMI less than 18.5, compared to individuals with a normal BMI (21.5 to 25). The research will involve analyzing body composition, food intake behavior, hormone levels, genetics, and gut microbiota characteristics. Up to 200 healthy superlean individuals and an equal number of control volunteers will be recruited to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and metabolism using advanced multi-omics analysis techniques. The study will also measure postprandial hormonal changes and appetite differences between the two groups.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy individuals aged 25-40 with a BMI less than 18.5 or between 21.5 and 25.

Not a fit: Patients with metabolic diseases, eating disorders, or those undergoing weight loss treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the unique metabolic characteristics of superlean individuals, potentially leading to improved understanding and management of body weight and metabolism.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on gut microbiota and metabolism, this specific focus on superlean individuals is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Control group (21.5≤ BMI\<25), Superlean group (BMI≤18.5)
* Age between 25-40 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* Having metabolic diseases or eating disorders
* Recent weight loss due to various disease causes
* Being treated for weight loss
* Having an infectious disease
* Pregnant and lactating women
* People with blood sickness, pathological hypo- or hypertension
* People suffering from claustrophobia
* No metal implants in the body
* Use of antibiotics, probiotics, oral laxatives, etc. within 8 weeks

Where this trial is running

Shenzhen

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 ThinnessHealth BehaviorSuperleanMetabolismMicrobiomebody compositionfood intakefood preference
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.