NCT03276923 · Duke University
Maternal Autoimmune Disease Research Alliance (MADRA) Registry
(MADRA)
What this study is about
This multi-site registry, centered at Duke University, will enroll pregnant women with autoimmune and rheumatologic diseases. The main goal of MADRA is to identify ways to improve the health of women with rheumatic diseases and their babies during pregnancy. Prior studies demonstrate the importance of increase inflammation prior to and during pregnancy on these outcomes.
View original scientific description
This multi-site registry, centered at Duke University, will enroll pregnant women with autoimmune and rheumatologic diseases. The main goal of MADRA is to identify ways to improve the health of women with rheumatic diseases and their babies during pregnancy. Prior studies demonstrate the importance of increase inflammation prior to and during pregnancy on these outcomes. The future research will seek to better define these risk factors and to identify ways to may improve them.
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
- Desire for pregnancy within 6 months or currently pregnant
- Women with systemic autoimmune disease, including:
- Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus or cutaneous lupus)
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome or positive antiphospholipid antibodies
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)
- Sjogren's Syndrome
- Inflammatory Arthritis (including Psoriatic Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis)
- Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD)
- Myositis (Polymyositis or Dermatomyositis)
- Positive Ro/SSA or La/SSB antibodies
Exclusion criteria
- Unable to speak English
- Unable to provide informed consent
- Unable to travel to Duke University for follow-up visits
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
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 Jan 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations