The role of gut microbiome in epilepsy

The propose of this pilot study is to test the hypothesis that children with epilepsy have changes in gut microbiome as compared to their siblings and controls.

Our specific aims are:

1. To compare the taxonomy of gut microbiome in patients with new onset epilepsy versus siblings and controls. 

2. To compare the taxonomy of gut microbiome in patients with new onset epilepsy versus chronic and refractory epilepsy. 

Study phase: Other

Study phase (if other): Observational Study

Basic eligibility criteria:
Please contact the study coordinator for additional eligibility information.

We are performing this study to understand the role of stomach bacteria in seizures and epilepsy in children and adults ages 3-18 years.

For this study, we will include:

1. Patients who are recently diagnosed with epilepsy or have recent seizure 

2. Patients who have a diagnosis of epilepsy for at least 1 year 

3. Patients who continue to have seizures despite taking medications. 

We will also include one sibling/household member who does not have epilepsy. 

Additional information:

The study will include one visit where history related to epilepsy and diet information will be collected. We will also collect stool and blood samples.

We will compensate $75 for each study participant for the time.

Primary disease category: Children, Infants & Newborns

Secondary disease categories: Brain, Spinal Cord & Nervous System, Epilepsy & Seizures, Children, Infants & Newborns, Healthy Volunteers

This study is enrolling healthy volunteers.

Sponsor: The University of Arizona

Projected enrollment dates: July 2019 to July 2023

Official study title: The role of gut microbiome in epilepsy