Using leftover bowel screening samples to study gut bacteria

Feasibility of Using National Bowel Screening Programme Surplus qFIT Samples to Investigate the Gut Microbiota.

University of Aberdeen · NCT06100549

This study is testing if leftover bowel screening samples can be used to learn more about gut bacteria and how it relates to health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment116 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Aberdeen (other)
Locations1 site (Aberdeen)
Trial IDNCT06100549 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the feasibility of using surplus samples from the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme to investigate gut microbiota. By analyzing small amounts of faeces collected through the qFIT testing method, researchers will assess whether these samples can yield sufficient DNA for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The goal is to determine if results from these samples are comparable to those obtained from conventionally collected stool samples, thereby enabling future studies on the gut microbiome's relationship with various health conditions. This approach could facilitate large-scale research using existing samples from a significant population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy men and women aged 18 to 65 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30 kg/m2.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, autoimmune disorders, or cancer may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the gut microbiota's role in various diseases, potentially leading to improved screening and treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using residual FIT test samples for microbiome analysis, suggesting this approach may be viable.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy men and women
* Aged 18 to 65
* BMI 18.5 and 30 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* A member of Prof Kiltie's lab
* Cconsumed antibiotics within the last 3 months
* Pregnant or breastfeeding
* Cannot drop your samples off at the Rowett Institute
* Have any of the following: History of cardiovascular disease/stroke, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, autoimmune disorders or cancer.

Where this trial is running

Aberdeen

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Gut Microbiota, qFIT, Bowel Screening Programme, Gut microbiome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.