NCT07619547 · National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Longitudinal Immunophenotyping of Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
What this study is about
Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe disorders that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and bleeding. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are the 2 main types of IBD.
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Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a term used to describe disorders that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, and bleeding. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are the 2 main types of IBD. Researchers want to conduct a natural history study to learn more about whether genetic factors can cause IBD; how immune cells contribute to IBD; and how diet, drugs, and disease affect those cells. Objective: To better understand IBD over time. Eligibility: Adults aged 18 to 85 years with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or another IBD. Their healthy relatives are also needed. Design: Affected participants will have clinic visits every 6 months for 3 years. Once a year, they will have these procedures: A physical exam with blood and stool samples. Ultrasound of the abdomen. A wand will be rolled over the skin. It uses sound waves to capture images of the intestines. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. They will lie on a table that slides into a tube. Magnetic fields will capture images of the intestines. Colonoscopy. A long, flexible tube with a video camera will be inserted into the rectum to view the entire colon. Up to 12 tissue samples may be taken. Upper endoscopy, for those with Crohn's disease. A long, thin tube with a camera will be inserted through the mouth and into the first part of the small intestine. Up to 12 small tissue samples may be taken. Questionnaires. Participants will answer questions about their disease and their diet. Midyear visits will include a physical exam, blood and stool collection, ultrasound, and questionnaires Healthy relatives will have 1 blood draw for genetic tests.
Primary outcome measures
To collect longitudinal clinical data and specimens, with the goal of identifying novel biomarkers correlating with disease activity or response to therapy
Time frame: 3 years
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
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria: Affected Participant cohort:
- Adults 18 - 85 years of age
- History of:
- a verifiable diagnosis of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or IBD known to be associated with a co-existing condition (such as CTLA4 deficiency or common variable immune deficiency) and which is supported by characteristic clinical features, radiographic or endoscopic findings, or consistent histopathologic mucosal changes related to chronic inflammation; and/or
- a defined genetic syndrome/mutation linked to inflammatory bowel disease risk with or without symptoms or findings consistent with IBD
- Presence of a referring community physician who would be able to manage care outside of NIH Unaffected family member of participant: immediate relative to the enrolled participant (mother, father, sibling, or adult child) may be recruited and enrolled to improve interpretation of genetic results or expand the phenotype of the IBD
- Adults 18 - 99 years of age
- In good general health
- No medical diagnosis of IBD
Exclusion criteria
- An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:
- Unable or unwilling to provide informed consent
- Evidence of significant medical illnesses that the investigators feel may interfere with study evaluations and procedures
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Oct 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations