NCT06202183 · Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Exercise for Gut Microbiome in Patients With Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: The COURAGE Trial
What this study is about
This research study is a randomly assigned controlled trial that will observe changes in microbiome activity, changes in chemotherapy toxicity, and any changes in treatment outcomes between two groups of participants undergoing chemotherapy with either early-stage or metastatic colorectal cancer.
View original scientific description
This research study is a randomized controlled trial that will observe changes in microbiome activity, changes in chemotherapy toxicity, and any changes in treatment outcomes between two groups of participants undergoing chemotherapy with either early-stage or metastatic colorectal cancer.
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
- Patient diagnosed with early-stage or metastatic colon or rectal cancer
- Age at diagnosis 18-50 years; due to the specificity of the study question those outside the age bracket will not be included
- No plans for major surgical intervention at the time of recruitment for a minimum of 12 weeks (i.e. study period; placement of port a cath is allowed)
- No plans for radiation therapy at the time of recruitment for a minimum of 12 weeks
- On or planning chemotherapy
- Participate in less than or equal to 90 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per week
- Medical clearance to perform exercise intervention and testing by their treating oncologist
- No uncontrolled medical conditions that could be exacerbated with exercise
- Ability to communicate and complete written forms in English
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign informed consent prior to any study-related procedures
- Willing to travel to DFCI for necessary data collection
Exclusion criteria
- Participate in more than 90 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise per week over the past month. This study targets insufficiently active persons to assess the effect of the described exercise intervention, where additional exercise done regularly will contaminate the intervention effects.
- Unstable comorbidities that prevent participation in moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise. Patients with unstable comorbidities may develop unexpected adverse events from exercise. For the purpose of patients' safety, as well as because this study involves remote, home-based exercise where close supervision is not possible, patients with unstable medical conditions are excluded.
- Patients actively on a weigh loss diet and/or actively taking weight loss drugs. This could effect gut microbiome.
- Patient with other active malignancies (excluding basal cell carcinoma).
- Subjects who in the opinion of the investigator may not be able to comply with the safety monitoring requirements of the study.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 15, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations