NCT07791862 · Seattle Children's Hospital
Familial Inflammatory Bowel Disease Early Risk
(FIBER)
What this study is about
Brief Summary The aim of the FIBER study is to identify potential triggers associated with the later development of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) based on baseline characteristics and biosamples (blood, urine, stool, saliva, and tissue). Aim 1: To identify clinical, demographic, and immunologic factors associated with an increased risk of developing IBD in family members of IBD patients.
View original scientific description
Brief Summary The aim of the FIBER study is to identify potential triggers associated with the later development of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) based on baseline characteristics and biosamples (blood, urine, stool, saliva, and tissue). Aim 1: To identify clinical, demographic, and immunologic factors associated with an increased risk of developing IBD in family members of IBD patients. This aim will investigate the role of clinical factors (e.g., age of onset, gender, and family history), demographic factors (e.g., socioeconomic status, geographical location), and immune system markers (e.g., inflammatory cytokine profiles, immune cell populations) in predicting the likelihood of family members developing IBD over time. Aim 2: To examine dietary, environmental, and immunologic influences on the development of IBD in family members of IBD patients. This aim will explore how dietary habits (e.g., fiber, fats, processed foods), environmental exposures (e.g., smoking, pollution, and antibiotic use), and immune responses (e.g., changes in T-cell activation, inflammatory markers) contribute to the risk of IBD in family members. Aim 3: To analyze the multi-omic (metagenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic) cellular signatures of host and microbial signatures in family members of IBD patients and their association with IBD onset. This aim will investigate changes in the gut microbiome and immune-related gene expression profiles (transcriptomics) in family members. Specifically, the aim will focus on how shifts in microbial composition and host immune response genes (e.g., those involved in inflammation and epithelial barrier function) correlate with an increased risk of IBD development. Aim 4: To investigate the multi-omic (metabolomic, transcriptomic, proteomic) cellular signature of host and microbial signatures in family members to identify biomarkers predictive of IBD development. This aim will involve examining the metabolic, protein, and transcriptomic signatures (e.g., circulating cytokines, immune receptor expression) in blood, urine, or stool samples. The study will seek to identify early biomarkers from these profiles that can predict the onset of IBD, even in asymptomatic family members.
Primary outcome measures
Serum antibody reactivity to microbial antigens measured using the Rapid Extracellular Antigen Profiling (REAP) assay, quantified as normalized REAP signal intensity (relative units) and assessed longitudinally.
Time frame: Baseline, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 42 months, 48 months, 54 months, 60 months, and at new IBD diagnosis.
Serum antibody reactivity to microbial antigens will be measured using the Rapid Extracellular Antigen Profiling (REAP) assay. Antigen-specific antibody reactivity will be quantified as normalized REAP signal intensity (relative units). REAP signal intensity will be compared between participants who subsequently develop IBD and participants who do not develop IBD during follow-up.
Change in stool-based biomarkers associated with future IBD diagnosis
Time frame: Baseline, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 42 months, 48 months, 54 months, 60 months, and at new IBD diagnosis.
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
- Asymptomatic first degree relative (FDR) (siblings or offspring) of patients with CD or UC aged between 0 and 55 years.
Exclusion criteria
- Nonviable neonates and uncertain viability neonates
- Antibiotic treatment within 3 months prior to recruitment
- Individuals with the presence of a known diagnosis of IBD, or symptoms suggestive of IBD
- Not within the age range of 0-55 years
Where
- Seattle, Washington
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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 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations