NCT06537258 · Emory University
Heart Rate Variability and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
What this study is about
The goals of this study are to test the effectiveness of a virtually delivered, group-based coping skills treatment program incorporating heart rate variability biofeedback to target autonomic dysfunction in youth diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The investigators will enroll participants with IBD in a biofeedback enhanced cognitive behaviorally based coping skills treatment.
View original scientific description
The goals of this study are to test the effectiveness of a virtually delivered, group-based coping skills treatment program incorporating heart rate variability biofeedback to target autonomic dysfunction in youth diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The investigators will enroll participants with IBD in a biofeedback enhanced cognitive behaviorally based coping skills treatment. Participants will be randomized to biofeedback enhanced treatment or wait-list control.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Biofeedback Enhanced Treatment
At all 4 assessment points (T1-T4), HRV will be measured using the ECG module of the mobile MindWare system at a sampling rate of 500 Hz, and a Skin Conductance Response (SCR) will be collected at a sampling rate of 10 Hz using eSense for iPad. Electrodes to assess SCR and HRV will be attached to patients during an \~10-minute period. A 5-minute initial baseline assessment will occur first followed by three 5-minute stress trials. Stress tasks will be audio recorded to measure study fidelity, and participants will be asked to rate their subjective level of stress with each trial. At all assessment points (T1-T4), participants will be provided with stool collection kits to collect a stool sample within 3 days of the laboratory psychophysiological assessment. At all assessment points (T1-T4), a blood draw of approximately 3 ml of blood will be collected.
Primary outcome measures
Changes in psychological distress
Time frame: Baseline, 6 weeks post-intervention
A continuous composite measure of stress, anxiety, and depression. Which will be analyzed continuously to evaluate for a significant mean difference between randomized groups at study endpoint (6-weeks). Scores range from 0 to 63, with higher scores indicating greater distress.
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
- Diagnosis with biopsy-confirmed IBD for at least 4 months,
- ages 13 through 18 years inclusive,
- speak English,
- enrolling with at least 1 parent/guardian who is willing to participate by completing surveys,
- positive depression or anxiety screens using the PHQ-4, - access to home internet to participate in virtual intervention,
- youth and parent agree to the conditions of study participation, including randomization, participation in intervention, and follow-up assessments,
- youth is medically approved to engage in normal daily activities (e.g., attend school, extracurricular activities)
Exclusion criteria
- previous diagnosis of developmental disabilities that require full-time special education or that impair the ability to respond to treatment,
- diagnosis with any other chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy, etc.),
- diagnosis of abnormal thyroid function,
- treatment with any drug with known autonomic cardiovascular influences including beta-blockers, central sympatholytic agents, or antidepressants.
Where
- Atlanta, Georgia
Collaborators
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
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 Apr 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations