The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) is recruiting dogs for a clinical trial evaluating the role of the intestinal microbiome in dogs with chronic gastrointestinal problems (eg. diarrhea and/or vomiting). The aim of the study is to determine the composition of the microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract before, during and after treatment. Understanding how these bacteria change in dogs being treated for canine chronic enteropathy (CCE) may lead to better diagnostics and treatments for chronic gastrointestinal diseases in pets, according to Mark Rondeau, DVM, staff veterinarian in internal medicine, and Daniel Beiting, Ph.D., research assistant professor. CCE is a common syndrome in dogs, resulting in diarrhea, vomiting and/or weight loss. The duration and severity of these symptoms vary, as does response to treatment, suggesting that there are multiple factors that contribute to this disease, according to Penn Vet. Common causes include food sensitivity and inflammatory bowel disease. The microbiome has been shown to play an important role in inflammatory bowel disease in humans, Penn Vet further noted. The researchers plan to enroll 50 dogs for the study. At press time, three dogs had been enrolled. The study is expected to conclude in February 2016 with results published within the year after completion. For full eligibility and trial details, visit the website.
