NCT07767981 · University of Chicago
Microbiome Determinants of Adverse Effects of Stereotactic Radiosurgery
(MICRO-ARE-SRS)
What this study is about
This forward-looking observational study will investigate the relationship between the gut microbiome and adverse effects following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Patients undergoing SRS as part of their standard clinical care will provide blood and stool samples before treatment and during follow-up.
View original scientific description
This prospective observational study will investigate the relationship between the gut microbiome and adverse effects following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Patients undergoing SRS as part of their standard clinical care will provide blood and stool samples before treatment and during follow-up. Samples will be analyzed to characterize fecal and blood metabolomic profiles and changes in the gut microbiome over time. The study has two primary objectives: to determine how stereotactic radiosurgery affects the gut microbiome and associated metabolomic profiles, and to evaluate whether microbiome- and metabolite-associated features are related to the development of adverse effects following SRS. Clinical data and standard-of-care neuroimaging will be collected longitudinally to identify outcomes including radiation necrosis and other adverse radiation effects. Biological profiles from patients who develop these outcomes will be compared with those from patients who do not, as well as within individual patients over time. The study aims to identify microbiome and metabolic signatures associated with susceptibility to adverse effects of stereotactic radiosurgery, with the long-term goal of improving risk stratification and informing future approaches to monitoring and treatment.
Primary outcome measures
Number of Participants With Radiation Necrosis Following Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Time frame: From stereotactic radiosurgery through 2.5 years of follow-up
Radiation necrosis will be identified through review of standard-of-care follow-up neuroimaging obtained after stereotactic radiosurgery. The outcome will be reported as the number of participants who develop radiation necrosis during the 2.5-year follow-up period.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Admitted to the University of Chicago Medical Center
- Receiving stereotactic radiosurgery as standard of care for their presumed diagnosis
- Able to provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Anticipated survival of less than 6 months
- Known or suspected infectious colitis within the month prior to enrollment
- Rectal disease that prevents fecal sampling
- Foreseeable inability to complete the study
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations