AIMIC – Uncovering the Role of Gut Microbiome in Aromatase Inhibitor-Associated Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Bone Health
Contact for Study Details:
Tel: (860) 341-1778, (860) 486-5915
Email: yanglab@uconn.edu
IRB number: 22-199S-1
Principle Investigator (PI): GeeSu Yang, PhD, RN
The AIMIC study is being done to better understand the potential role of the gut microbiome (e.g., bacteria, fungi, and microbes living in the human gastrointestinal tract) that may either protect against and/or predispose to musculoskeletal symptoms, such as joint pain or stiffness, in breast cancer survivors receiving aromatase inhibitors. A further aim of this study is to identify interactions of gene expression, gut microbiome, and lifestyle habits, such as diet, physical activity, and stress, on aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal symptoms and bone health.
Participation in this study involves a one-time visit to The University of Connecticut Storrs or Farmington (UConn Health) campus. Participants will be asked to discuss their past health/medical history and then be asked to complete surveys about pain, lifestyle habits (stress, diet, and physical activity), and social determinants of health.
Participants will then be asked to collect a saliva sample to profile gene expression.
Participants will be asked to collect a stool sample at home and mail this sample (a pre-stamped/labeled envelope will be provided) directly to UConn School of Nursing Biobehavioral Research Lab (BBL). This sample will be used to assess the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome.
As optional, pain and sensory perception will be assessed using quantitative sensory testing (QST), a noninvasive instrument used to analyze musculoskeletal disorders. This will include tests such as heat- and cold-induced pain, pressure pain, and punctate mechanical pain.
You can also participate in the study remotely. The remote informed consent process will take place via Zoom or phone. You can complete the questionnaires either through Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap), a secure web platform, or using paper-based questionnaires mailed to you. We will mail the sample collection packet, and we expect you to collect your saliva and stool samples at home and mail them back to us. If studies are done at home, QST will not be included.
We anticipate this study session to last approximately 2 hours. To compensate for your time, you will receive up to $120 upon completion of the study ($80 for completion of surveys and an additional $20 for receipt of stool sample plus additional payment [$20] for QST).