The QIB Colon Model
We're looking for healthy adult volunteers living or working near Norwich for a research project called 'The QIB Colon Model'. We need stool samples (poo samples) to help us understand the tiny living organisms in your gut, known as the gut microbiome. Scientists will use these samples in laboratory 'models' that act like a part of your digestive system – specifically, your large bowel or colon. By studying these models, researchers can learn more about how gut bacteria interact with what we eat, any medications we take, and how these interactions affect our health. This work aims to deepen our basic scientific understanding of the gut without involving human participants directly once the sample is donated.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This project, called 'The QIB Colon Model', is all about understanding the incredibly complex world of your gut. Inside your large bowel (colon), there are trillions of tiny living organisms, mostly bacteria, which scientists call the 'gut microbiome'. These tiny organisms play a huge role in your health, influencing everything from digestion to your immune system.
To study this, researchers need stool samples from healthy adults. These samples aren't used in human trials; instead, they are carefully placed into special laboratory systems that mimic parts of your colon. Think of these as advanced 'artificial guts' in a lab dish. These models allow scientists to watch how the bacteria from your stool sample respond to different things – like various food components, new medications, or even potential harmful substances, in a controlled environment without affecting you directly.
The research aims to build a clearer picture of how our gut microbiome works, how it might change due to different factors, and what this means for our overall well-being. By using these colon models, scientists can conduct detailed studies that wouldn't be possible in living people, helping to unlock new knowledge that could eventually lead to better ways to keep our guts healthy.
Key takeaways
- Contribute to vital gut health research.
- Participation involves donating a stool sample.
- Research uses lab models, not human trials directly.
- Minimal risk, as you only provide a sample.
- Help scientists understand gut bacteria interactions.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to live or work within 10 miles of the Norwich Research Park and be an adult aged 18 or over. It's important that you generally have a normal and regular bowel habit, meaning you go to the toilet between three times a day and three times a week, and your stools are usually a healthy consistency.
We cannot include volunteers who have been diagnosed with ongoing gut health problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or coeliac disease. Also, please note that if you've recently taken antibiotics or probiotics (within the last two months), or had surgery requiring a general anaesthetic, you typically won't be able to participate. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or have had a recent stomach upset with vomiting or diarrhoea, you also wouldn't be eligible.
Sometimes, depending on the specific experiment, recent use of other medications or food supplements might also mean you can't take part. The research team will discuss all these points with you if you're interested in volunteering.
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.
- Am I aged 18 or over?
- Do I live or work within 10 miles of Norwich Research Park?
- Do I generally have normal and regular bowel movements?
- Have I avoided antibiotics or probiotics in the last 2 months?
- Am I free from diagnosed chronic gut conditions (like IBS, IBD, coeliac disease)?
What does participation involve?
If you volunteer for this study, your main involvement will be donating a stool (poo) sample. You'll be asked to provide a fresh sample which will then be collected and taken to the lab. You won't need to visit the lab or undergo any assessments there once your sample is provided. There are no medications to take, no long-term follow-up visits for you, and your involvement will typically conclude once your sample has been collected. The research using your sample will happen in the lab, without any further direct participation from you.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Quadram Institute BioscienceVerified postcodeNorwich, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the 'gut microbiome'?
It's the collection of all the tiny living organisms, mainly bacteria, that live in your gut and play an important role in your health.
How will my stool sample be used?
Your sample will be used in special lab models that act like your large bowel (colon) to study how gut bacteria interact with food and medicines.
Do I need to visit the lab frequently?
No, your involvement is mainly limited to donating a single stool sample. You won't need follow-up visits or assessments.
Are there any health risks for me?
Since participation only involves donating a sample, there are minimal health risks to you. The research is done in a lab, not on people.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.