NCT06266689 · Duke University
Project humAn dieTary daTa rEtuRN
(PATTERN)
What this study is about
This study is designed to test the effects of diet data return on human dietary patterns. The investigators' working hypothesis is that returning diet data, collected via an empirical biomarker-based assessment method, will promote participant eating behavior changes towards a more healthful diet, and that these dietary patterns may also be reflected in the structure and function of the gut microbiome and in participant health outcomes. Here, the investigators will explore this hypothesis with participants supplying stool (poop) samples that will be used to assess their diet using the investigators' DNA-biomarker based method. Participants will have their diet data returned to them, and will then supply post-intervention stool samples for dietary assessment to investigate the effectiveness of diet data return in impacting subject dietary patterns and health. It is anticipated that the investigators will enroll infants, children, and adults across the age span, including infants that are currently participating in Project HOPE 1000, a longitudinal observational study of mothers and infants from pregnancy through early childhood (Pro00100000). This study represents a minimal risk to subjects; namely, the potential loss of privacy involved with study participation.
View original scientific description
This study is designed to test the effects of diet data return on human dietary patterns. The investigators' working hypothesis is that returning diet data, collected via an empirical biomarker-based assessment method, will promote participant eating behavior changes towards a more healthful diet, and that these dietary patterns may also be reflected in the structure and function of the gut microbiome and in participant health outcomes. Here, the investigators will explore this hypothesis with participants supplying stool (poop) samples that will be used to assess their diet using the investigators' DNA-biomarker based method. Participants will have their diet data returned to them, and will then supply post-intervention stool samples for dietary assessment to investigate the efficacy of diet data return in impacting subject dietary patterns and health. It is anticipated that the investigators will enroll infants, children, and adults across the age span, including infants that are currently participating in Project HOPE 1000, a longitudinal observational study of mothers and infants from pregnancy through early childhood (Pro00100000). This study represents a minimal risk to subjects; namely, the potential loss of privacy involved with study participation.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Personalized Diet Information
These participants will receive a report detailing their genomic food data based on the investigators' DNA metabarcoding technique in addition to standard dietary guidance to see if receiving the report modifies what they choose to feed their infant.
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants with diet improvement
Time frame: 12 months
The investigators' primary objective is to test the hypothesis that returning DNA metabarcoding data is an effective method for improving diet and increasing dietary diversity.
Number of participants with increased dietary diversity
Time frame: 12 months
the investigators' primary objective is to test the hypothesis that returning DNA metabarcoding data is an effective method for improving diet and increasing dietary diversity.
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
- Participant's parent/legal guardian is over age 18 and able to understand English
- Plans to remain in the area for the next two years
- Primary caregiver for infant less than 12 months old
- Able to collect and ship the requested infant stool samples
Exclusion criteria
- There will be no specific exclusions for this study. However, the following biospecimens will not be collected for research purposes from individuals who have a condition that, in the opinion of the site investigators and/or providers, would place the subject at unacceptable risk of injury or confound data interpretation; including but not limited to:
- Health conditions that impact the infant feeding in a way that may confound interpretation of study results.
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
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 Jan 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations