NCT06636318 · University of Chicago
Immune Status After Being on Call for 24 Hrs
What this study is about
Sleep deprivation is a prevalent problem in modern societies. Sleep deprivation can cause hormonal changes, such as an increase in cortisol, as well as inflammation. Animal studies have shown an increase in inflammatory cytokine production following sleep deprivation. Additionally, humans experiencing sleep deprivation may experience a decrease in natural killer cells and lymphocytes.
View original scientific description
Sleep deprivation is a prevalent problem in modern societies. Sleep deprivation can cause hormonal changes, such as an increase in cortisol, as well as inflammation. Animal studies have shown an increase in inflammatory cytokine production following sleep deprivation. Additionally, humans experiencing sleep deprivation may experience a decrease in natural killer cells and lymphocytes. Physicians, particularly those in surgical specialties, are often subjected to sleep deprivation as part of their medical residency training. This study hypothesizes that after 24-hour shifts, there is an increase in inflammatory response and impairment of the immune response against unspecific activation. This proposal aims to provide insight into the impact of sleep deprivation on the immune system of surgery residents by characterizing the phenotype and function of immune cells, as well as their correlation with biometric data.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Blood Sample Collection
To characterize the phenotype and function of immune cells in surgery residents before and after a 24-hour shift, and before and after a month of being "on call". Along with to investigate the relationship between sleep deprivation, physical activity, and different immune responses.
DEVICE
Actigraph (GT9X-BT) Monitor
Participants will be asked to wear their monitor every day for a week. The monitor will collect their step count, sleep and heart rate automatically. Participants will return their monitor at visit 5 (day 30) of the study.
Primary outcome measures
Characterization of the phenotype and function of immune cells using flow cytometry
Time frame: 24 hours
Specifically, T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells will be identified and analyzed. Memory cells, co-inhibitor markers, and regulatory markers will also be evaluated. The function will be analyzed based on the intracellular expression of effector molecules and cytokines after unspecific activation with CD3-CD28 beads.
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
- Healthy subjects
- Surgery residents in a 24-hour shift rotation
- Gender of subjects: Males and females
- Age of subjects: 18 years old and older
- Racial and Ethnic Origin: Any race or ethnicity
Exclusion criteria
- Unwilling/unable to sign informed consent
- Vulnerable Subjects/Subject Capacity to provide consent
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
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 Dec 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations