Ongoing, recruitingHuman Pharmacology (Phase I)- OtherInterventional

Neurogenic inflammation upon AITC-induced TRPA1 activation

This study is designed for healthy men aged 18 and over. It's looking into how a specific natural chemical, similar to the one that gives mustard and wasabi their hot sensation, affects nerve activity. This chemical is called AITC, and it activates something in our bodies called TRPA1. Researchers want to understand the body's natural reactions to such stimuli – a process sometimes called 'neurogenic inflammation' when described by scientists. By doing this, they can learn more about how our nerves detect and react to different things, which could eventually help understand irritation, discomfort, or other bodily responses in the future. This is a very early-stage study, focusing purely on understanding a basic body process in healthy people.

At a glance

Status

Ongoing, recruiting

Phase

Human Pharmacology (Phase I)- Other

Sponsor

UZ Leuven

Enrolment target

Start

26 Feb 2025

Not applicable this trial investigates a physiological process in healthy volunteers.

What is this study about?

This research is a very early-stage study, often called a 'Phase I' or 'human pharmacology' study. Unlike studies that test new medicines for specific diseases, this one is purely focused on understanding a basic process within the human body. The scientists want to learn more about how our nerves react to certain irritants found in nature.

Specifically, they are using a chemical called AITC. You might not have heard of AITC, but it's very similar to the natural substances that make foods like mustard, wasabi, and horseradish taste spicy or pungent. When you feel that 'kick' or warmth from these foods, it's often because of how these chemicals interact with specific sensors in your body, particularly those on nerve cells. One of these sensors is called TRPA1.

The study aims to observe what happens when AITC activates TRPA1 in healthy volunteers. Scientists want to see if this activation causes a reaction in the nerves, sometimes referred to as 'neurogenic inflammation' in medical terms. Don't worry, this doesn't mean you'll have a serious health problem; it's simply a technical way of describing how nerves can respond to certain triggers. By understanding these fundamental reactions in healthy people, researchers can build a better picture of how our body's nervous system works and responds to its environment.

Key takeaways

It's an early study to understand how healthy nerves work.
Uses a natural chemical like the one in spicy foods.
Only healthy men aged 18 and over can join.
It's about basic body processes, not a treatment for illness.
Participation helps future medical understanding.

Who may be eligible?

This study is particularly looking for healthy male volunteers. You need to be at least 18 years old to take part; there's no upper age limit, as long as you meet all other health requirements. The researchers are focusing on men for this specific study.

Since this study is about understanding basic body processes in healthy individuals, it's likely they will look for people who don't have any major ongoing health conditions or aren't taking regular medications that might affect the results. The main aim is to see how a typical, healthy male body reacts. Think of it like tuning a piano – they want to understand how a perfectly tuned piano sounds before trying to fix one that's out of tune.

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 male?
Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you consider yourself generally healthy?
Are you able to attend study visits if required?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The information provided doesn't give a detailed breakdown of what taking part involves. However, based on similar early-stage studies, if you volunteer, it would typically involve one or possibly a few visits to a research clinic. During these visits, the researchers would apply the AITC chemical (likely in a controlled way, perhaps to your skin) and then carefully monitor your body's response. This might involve collecting samples or using special equipment to measure nerve activity or other reactions. You wouldn't be given any long-term medication, and there would be no long-term follow-up beyond the study visits. The total duration of your involvement would likely be quite short, probably a day or two of clinic visits.

Potential risks and benefits

As this is a very early-stage study in healthy volunteers, the direct personal benefits to participants are usually limited, as it's not testing a treatment for a specific condition. However, by taking part, you would be contributing to scientific knowledge, helping researchers better understand how the human body works, which could indirectly lead to future medical advances. Potential risks are generally low in such studies but could include mild, temporary discomfort, redness, or a warm sensation at the site where the chemical is applied. All procedures would be explained in full detail, and your safety would be a top priority. You would, of course, have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Belgium

Common questions

What is AITC?

AITC is a natural chemical similar to the one that makes mustard and wasabi spicy. Researchers use it to understand how nerves react.

What is TRPA1?

TRPA1 is a special sensor found on some of our nerve cells. It helps our body detect irritants, like the spicy sensation from AITC.

Will this study cure a disease?

No, this study is not designed to cure a disease. Its purpose is to help scientists understand how healthy bodies and nerves work.

Will I feel pain or discomfort?

You might feel a mild, temporary sensation, similar to the spiciness of mustard, where the chemical is applied. Any potential discomfort would be explained beforehand.

How long does participation last?

The information doesn't say, but early-stage studies like this usually involve a few short visits, not long-term involvement.