RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Pesticides and Infertility: Oxidative Stress Via Circulating Cell-free DNA and Gut/Genital Microbiome Signatures in Women With Endometriosis

This study, called PestiEndoMicro, aims to understand endometriosis better by looking at the germs (microbiota) in a woman's gut and private areas. The researchers want to see if these germs are affected by pesticides, which are chemicals often used in farming. They'll also measure tiny bits of DNA in the blood to check for stress in the body and genetic changes related to endometriosis. By examining these factors, the study hopes to find new ways to spot endometriosis earlier and develop better treatments in the future. It's all about gaining more knowledge to improve care for women living with this condition.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Amiens

Enrolment target

160

Start

27 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

01 May 2028

Endometriosis Infertility Female Fertility Cell Free DNA Genital Microbiota Vaginal Microbiota Endometrial Microbiota Pesticides Gut Microbiota Epigenetics

What is this study about?

Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. This can cause pain and sometimes make it difficult to get pregnant. This study, called PestiEndoMicro, is trying to understand more about why some women develop endometriosis and how it affects fertility. They're focusing on a few key areas that haven't been fully explored before.

Firstly, the researchers are looking at the 'microbiota' – the tiny germs and bacteria – that live in our gut and in our private areas. They want to see if the balance of these germs is different in women with endometriosis and if this imbalance could be linked to the condition. Secondly, they're investigating how pesticides, which are chemicals found in our environment, might play a role. They'll be checking if women with endometriosis have been exposed to more pesticides and if this exposure affects their microbiota or causes stress to their bodies.

Finally, the study will examine tiny fragments of DNA, called cell-free DNA, in the blood. These fragments can tell us about stress within the body and even reveal genetic changes. By bringing all these pieces together – the gut and vaginal germs, pesticide exposure, and DNA information – the scientists hope to find unique 'signatures' for endometriosis. This could lead to earlier diagnosis and, in the long run, open the door to new and more effective treatments for women with endometriosis.

Key takeaways

This study explores links between endometriosis, gut/vaginal germs, and pesticide exposure.
It aims to find new ways to diagnose endometriosis earlier.
Researchers will study tiny DNA fragments and body germs.
The goal is to develop better future treatments for endometriosis.
Participation will involve providing various samples and personal information.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a woman between 18 and 43 years old. You might be in the 'case' group if you have confirmed endometriosis (specifically grades 3 or 4). Alternatively, you could be in the 'control' group if you don't have endometriosis, and your difficulties getting pregnant are known to be due to your male partner.

For both groups, it's important that you haven't taken antibiotics in the three months before joining, and you shouldn't be involved in any other medication studies. You also need to be covered by the national health insurance scheme and be able to give your full and informed consent to participate after thinking it over carefully.

There are also reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are over 43, pregnant, or have certain other health conditions like Crohn's disease or polycystic ovary syndrome. Also, if your weight is outside a healthy range (overweight, obese, or anorexic), or if you've already had certain treatments for endometriosis, you wouldn't be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman between 18 and 43 years old?
Do you have confirmed endometriosis (grades 3 or 4) OR is your infertility known to be male-factor?
Have you avoided antibiotics for the last three months?
Are you NOT currently pregnant or participating in another drug study?
Do you NOT have certain other chronic health conditions like Crohn's disease?
Are you able to give your full permission to join the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed involvement for participants isn't fully described in the brief summary, but it will definitely include collecting different types of samples. The researchers mention analysing circulating DNA, vaginal, endometrial (from the womb lining), and intestinal (gut) microbiota. This typically involves blood tests, swabs from your vagina, and possibly a small sample from your womb lining and stool samples. You would also likely be asked questions about your lifestyle and potential exposure to chemicals. The overall duration is not specified, but these types of studies usually involve an initial assessment and sample collection, with potential follow-up if needed. You will be fully informed about all procedures before consenting.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer the benefit of contributing valuable information that could lead to better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment for endometriosis in the future. There are no direct medical benefits for you from taking part, as this is an observational study. Potential risks are generally low, mainly discomfort from sample collections like blood tests or intimate swabs. All procedures will be explained, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

CHRU Amiens
Verified postcode
Salouël, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'microbiota'?

Microbiota refers to all the tiny germs, like bacteria, that naturally live in and on our bodies, for example, in our gut or vagina.

What are 'pesticides'?

Pesticides are chemicals used to control pests, often in farming, and we can be exposed to them through food or the environment.

What is 'cell-free DNA'?

Cell-free DNA are tiny pieces of genetic material that float freely in your blood. Scientists can learn things about your body by studying them.

Will this study help me personally?

While this study provides valuable information that could help others in the future, it's a research study and isn't designed to directly treat your endometriosis or infertility.

Is my personal information kept private?

Yes, all research studies are required to keep your personal information confidential and protect your privacy.

How to find out more

Moncef BENKHALIFA, Pr

benkhalifa.moncef@chu-amiens.fr 33+3 22 08 73 72 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.