Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Challenge Non-Typhoidal Salmonella (CHANTS) Study

The CHANTS study is looking for healthy volunteers aged 18 to 50 to help us understand non-typhoidal Salmonella infections better. In this study, participants will be given a small, controlled amount of Salmonella bacteria. Researchers will closely monitor how their bodies react and learn about the symptoms and how the infection develops. The main aim is to find out the dose needed for most people to get a mild infection. This information will be crucial for developing and testing new vaccines that could protect many people from serious Salmonella illnesses in the future. All participants will be carefully looked after and treated with antibiotics if needed.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

31 Aug 2023

Estimated completion

28 Feb 2026

Salmonella Infections Salmonella Typhimurium Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS)Invasive Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Disease Communicable Disease Infections, Bacterial Enteric Fever (Not Typhoid)Gastroenteritis

What is this study about?

The CHANTS study is designed to help us understand a type of bacteria called Salmonella, specifically the kind that isn't typhoid. While often causing unpleasant stomach upsets, some Salmonella infections can be more serious. By carefully giving healthy volunteers a controlled amount of these bacteria, scientists can observe exactly how the infection starts and progresses in the body. This is a very safe way to learn, as participants are looked after closely and receive quick treatment if necessary.

The main goal is to find out the smallest amount of Salmonella bacteria needed to cause a mild infection in most people. This helps researchers create a reliable "challenge model." Think of it like a controlled experiment where they can later test new vaccines to see if they prevent the infection. Without this step, it's much harder to know if a vaccine works effectively.

Ultimately, the knowledge gained from this study is very important for public health. By developing a better understanding of how these infections work and creating a way to test new vaccines, we can move closer to protecting people, especially those in vulnerable populations, from the more severe effects of non-typhoidal Salmonella.

Key takeaways

This study helps understand Salmonella infections for vaccine development.
Healthy volunteers are given a small, controlled amount of Salmonella.
Participants will be closely watched and treated quickly if they get ill.
The study aims to find the right dose for a mild, controlled infection.
Your involvement could help protect many people from serious illness.
You can stop participating at any time if you change your mind.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a healthy adult between 18 and 50 years old. The research team will check your medical history and do a physical exam to make sure you are in good general health.

You also need to be able to follow all the study instructions, including good hand hygiene to prevent spreading germs. You must agree that the study team can speak to your GP about your health and that other health authorities will know you're taking part.

Because you'll be given a small amount of bacteria, you'll need to stay for a while in a special facility, and you must stay in touch with the study team for several weeks afterwards. You'll also need easy access to the internet for daily health updates.

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 between 18 and 50 years old?
Are you generally healthy and feel well?
Can you follow study rules and hygiene advice?
Are you able to stay in an inpatient facility for a period?
Do you have reliable internet access for daily updates?
Are you willing for your GP and health authorities to know you're in the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first have a screening appointment. This involves filling out forms about your health and possibly a phone call or in-person chat to make sure the study is right for you. This is also your chance to ask any questions you have.

If you're accepted, you'll be given a small, measured amount of Salmonella bacteria to swallow. After this, you'll stay in a special inpatient facility for a period. During this time, the medical team will watch you very closely. If you develop symptoms or meet certain criteria, you'll be given antibiotics immediately.

After leaving the inpatient facility, you'll need to stay in regular contact with the study team for about four weeks. This will involve checking in by phone and possibly using an online diary to report any symptoms. The total time you'll be involved in the study, including screening, inpatient stay, and follow-up, could range from 21 to 26 visits or contact points, depending on how your body responds to the challenge.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer benefits such as helping scientists develop new ways to prevent serious Salmonella infections, potentially improving health for many people in the future. However, there are also some risks, as you will intentionally be given bacteria that can cause illness. While you will be very carefully monitored and treated quickly if you get sick, you might experience symptoms like stomach upset. You 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.

Imperial College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What kind of Salmonella will I be given?

You will be given a specific type of Salmonella called Salmonella Typhimurium in a carefully controlled amount.

Will I get very sick?

The goal is to cause a mild infection, and you will be closely monitored. If you get sick, you will be treated with antibiotics right away.

How long will I have to stay in the hospital?

You'll stay in a special facility after you're given the bacteria, and the length of your stay will depend on your symptoms and when you're well enough to go home.

Will I be paid to take part?

The study information does not specify payment, but you should ask the study team if there is any compensation for your time and inconvenience.

Can I leave the study early if I change my mind?

Yes, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without needing to give a reason, and it won't affect your medical care.