Exploring the Role of Plastics and Toxins in Intestinal Inflammation (PLANET Study)
Published: 09/25/2023
General Information:
The PLANET Study aims to determine the impact of microplastics on intestinal inflammation and the gut microbiome in order to understand the role of this pollutant on the risk of developing IBD as well as other diseases. With this information, the study team hopes to characterize better the role of environmental pollutants on IBD and develop novel strategies towards prevention.
Eligibility:
Inclusion: 18 years or older, living in the United States, and pregnant or wishing to be pregnant and enroll the infant they are pregnant with.
Exclusion: Individuals who are unable to give informed consent, be diagnosed with any of the following pregnancy complications (intrauterine fetal demise/stillbirth, preeclampsia, hyperemesis gravidarum, or have an active infection, including chorioamnionitis or sepsis), have a fetus with chromosomal or structural abnormalities, individuals who are HIV positive or have undergone a colectomy or have an ileo-anal pouch.
Study Details:
Study description/explanation of participation:
This is an observational study that begins in the third trimester of pregnancy and finishes with the final samples and surveys completed at the infant’s first birthday. There is no cost to the participant, all materials are provided and samples are collected in the comfort of the participant’s home. Participants can enroll from anywhere in the United States and compensation is provided.
Patient Participation Requirements:
The collection of stool, saliva, baby diapers, breast milk and delivery samples. There are also surveys at each time point related to diet, health history and your infant’s development.
Possible risks and side effects:
There are no known risks or side effects related to the collection of saliva, stool, cord blood, placenta, teeth, toenails or hair.