NCT06237127 · University of California, Davis
Effects of Goji vs. Fiber on Macular Degeneration
(GOJI)
What this study is about
The goal of this project is to conduct a clinical trial in 60 participants ranging from age 65-95 who are at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study will evaluate the effects of 14g of goji berry intake or an equivalent amount and type of fiber, five days a week for six months, on visual health, gut microbiome profiles, skin carotenoid measures, and lipoprotein profiles.
View original scientific description
The goal of this project is to conduct a clinical trial in 60 participants ranging from age 65-95 who are at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study will evaluate the effects of 14g of goji berry intake or an equivalent amount and type of fiber, five days a week for six months, on visual health, gut microbiome profiles, skin carotenoid measures, and lipoprotein profiles.
Interventions
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Goji berry
Participants will be instructed to consume 14 grams of goji berries 5 days a week for 6 months
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Fiber
Participants will be instructed to consume the fiber supplements 5 days a week for 6 months
Primary outcome measures
Macular pigment optical volume (MPOV)
Time frame: Day 0 and Day 180
MPOV provides an objective measure of macular pigments by using dual wavelength autofluorescence using the Heidelberg Spectralis to obtain HRA + OCT measures
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
- Family history of AMD
- Hyperlipidemia or managed diabetes
- 65 - 95 years of age
Exclusion criteria
- Dislike of, or allergy to, goji berries or any of the ingredients in the fiber-rich wafers and gummies (wheat, corn, oats, soy, natural orange flavor, xylitol, annatto, pectin, or other food ingredients)
- Consumption of \> 2 alcoholic drinks per day
- Indications of substance or alcohol abuse
- Current or planned use of a blood thinner (e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin) at any time during study
- Use of multi-vitamin or any other supplements that contain lutein and/or zeaxanthin (if willing to stop the supplement, subject can be enrolled 6 months from stop date)
- Taking any new medications started within the past 6 months, or changes in medication regimen planned in the next 6 months (stable use greater than 6 months is not exclusionary)
- Any planned international travel during the study
- Consuming \>3 servings/day of a combination of spinach, kale, lettuce, orange bell peppers, corn, parsley, squash, broccoli, pumpkin, edamame
- Regularly consuming \>3 eggs/day
- Currently participating in any other interventional research study
- Diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, other gastrointestinal disorder, undergoing cancer therapy or immunocompromised, or diagnosis of another condition where lutein, zeaxanthin and/or fiber supplementation would be contraindicated or would interfere with ability to participate in the study
- Any physical characteristic or condition that precludes ability to perform study procedures
- Medical or psychiatric condition that, in the opinion of the Investigator, would compromise study findings or prevent the participant from completing the study
Where
- Sacramento, California
Collaborators
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Related conditions & keywords
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 Jul 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations