The International MS Microbiome Study

The International MS Microbiome Study

Brief description of study

Dr. Amit Bar-Or, MD, FRCPC from the University of Pennsylvania Department of Neurology is conducting a study to investigate how the structure and activity of gastrointestinal microbes (bacteria and fungi) found in the gut contribute to multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. You are being asked to participate in this study because either you have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) and can help investigators understand more about MS and immune function. 

Detailed description of study

The gut is considered a key immune organ and it harbors millions of microorganisms.(bacteria) These microorganisms vary from person to person based on genetics among other factors. Alterations in the microorganisms found in the gut have been associated with gastrointestinal (GI) disease states and with other autoimmune conditions. By analyzing GI microorganisms in people diagnosed with MS and comparing it to those of healthy controls we hope to better understand the role GI microorganisms play in immune function and disease course. Previous research has shown that changes in microorganisms may lead to altered immune responses in the central nervous system (CNS). For example, an animal model of human MS suggests that altering certain bacterial populations normally present in the gut leads to the development of CNS autoimmunity ( your immune response to your own cells) . In contrast, other bacteria protect against inflammation within the brain. Altogether, these data suggest that bacteria play a far larger role than previously anticipated and that keeping an adequate balance of microbial populations in the gut may be essential to prevent autoimmunity.

Eligibility of study

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Conditions:
    multiple sclerosis,MS,healthy volunteers
  • Age: Between 18 Years - 90 Years
  • Gender: All

To see if you meet required criteria for this study, please answer some questions in the pre-screen section. You may be asked some personal health questions. You do not have to answer any questions you do not wish to answer, and you may stop at any time. Answering these questions is voluntary. If you choose to not participate, even if you meet criteria, your decision will not affect your relationship with or care provided by the University of Pennsylvania.
 
These questions in the pre-screen do not send any information directly to the research team. None of your answers will be saved by the research team. If you appear to meet criteria, you can choose to notify the research team of your interest in the study, at the end of these questions. If you do not meet criteria or choose not to fill out your contact information at the end, your information will not be stored by the University of Pennsylvania, through this website. 

Updated on 09 Mar 2024. Study ID: 831356
If you need assistance finding a non-cancer clinical research study or if you have any questions, please email psom-ocr@pobox.upenn.edu For cancer trials contact EmergingMed: 1-855-216-0098 or PennCancerTrials@emergingmend.com

Interested in the study

Select a study center that’s convenient for you, and get in touch with the study team.

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