NCT07032545 · University of Maryland, Baltimore
Metabotyping of Broccoli Microgreen in Obese Breast Cancer Survivors
What this study is about
Obesity can pose significant challenges to maintaining long-term health in cancer survivors by increasing their risk of cancer coming back. Eating a healthy diet is an important way to help manage weight and improve overall health. Broccoli microgreens (BMG) are young broccoli plants packed with nutrients, and research suggests they may help prevent cancer.
View original scientific description
Obesity can pose significant challenges to maintaining long-term health in cancer survivors by increasing their risk of cancer coming back. Eating a healthy diet is an important way to help manage weight and improve overall health. Broccoli microgreens (BMG) are young broccoli plants packed with nutrients, and research suggests they may help prevent cancer. Previous studies in mice showed that BMG can improve gut health and metabolism, leading to better health outcomes in obese animals. This study will test whether BMG can be a useful addition to the diet of obese breast cancer (BC) survivors who have a higher risk of their cancer returning. 24 obese BC survivors will be invited to eat one serving (one cup, \~57 gram) of fresh BMG every day for two weeks. This will help understand if people can stick to this diet, how their bodies respond, and whether it affects metabolism and inflammation-two key factors linked to cancer risk. Biological markers such as body fat, glucose and lipids as well as gut bacterial changes will be analyzed to see how BMG affects individual health. This study may help create new diet strategies to improve health, reduce cancer risk, and support long-term recovery in cancer patients who are overweight or obese. In the future, this research could help doctors personalize nutrition plans to better support cancer survivors.
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
- Had a diagnosis of breast cancer (Stage I-III)
- 2 to 60 months post-curative treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation)
- BMI \> 30 kg/m² (obese classification)
- Willing to avoid cruciferous vegetables during the study
- Able to sign an IRB-approved consent form
Exclusion criteria
- Have any contraindications to the proposed nutrition intervention as identified by their medical provider, their designee, or the study team (e.g., GI conditions, medication requirements, pregnancy, breastfeeding, recent history of an eating disorder).
- Allergy or intolerance to cruciferous vegetables
- Currently taking broccoli extract supplements
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
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 Dec 23, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations