University Of Minnesota

This study tests whether the drug lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), usually used for ADHD, can help children aged 6 to 12 with severe obesity lose weight. About 44 children will receive either the drug or a placebo, plus lifestyle therapy, for 24 weeks. The main goal is to see if their…

This study tested two anti-inflammatory drugs (etanercept and alpha-1 antitrypsin) in 43 adults with severe chronic pancreatitis who had their pancreas removed and their insulin-making cells (islets) transplanted into the liver. The goal was to see if these drugs could protect th…

This study tested whether a combination of two weight-loss drugs, phentermine and topiramate, could help 100 teens with severe obesity keep weight off after losing it through a meal replacement program. The goal was to see if the medication could counteract the body's natural ten…

This study tested if limiting when you eat (time-restricted eating) helps families lose weight. 36 pairs of one parent and one child (ages 3-9) with obesity were assigned to either eat only within a 10-12 hour window each day or to follow standard diet advice. The program lasted …

This study tested whether giving low-dose iron supplements (65 mg daily) for 6 months helps people with low hemoglobin pass the blood donation screening and successfully donate within a year. Over 500 adults in Ghana who were deferred from donating due to low hemoglobin took part…

This study looked at 150 teens aged 12-17 with severe obesity to find the best time to add a weight-loss pill (phentermine) if lifestyle changes alone weren't enough. Participants first tried lifestyle therapy for 12 or 24 weeks, then those who didn't lose enough weight started t…

This study tested whether three common drugs—metformin, ivermectin, and fluvoxamine—could prevent severe illness and long COVID in 1,323 adults with early COVID-19. Participants were overweight or obese and not hospitalized. The key finding was that metformin reduced the risk of …

This study looked at whether time-restricted eating (TRE) — eating only during a set daily window — can help control blood sugar and weight in adults with type 2 diabetes. 115 overweight or obese adults who take metformin were asked to follow TRE for 24 weeks. The goal was to see…

This study tested three ways to deliver a parenting program called ADAPT for military families with a parent who returned from deployment. The program aims to improve parenting skills and reduce child behavior problems. Researchers compared a self-directed website, a website with…

This study tested a program called FAM that helps adults with type 1 diabetes avoid dangerously high blood sugar, which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The program involved sharing real-time glucose data with a family member or friend (the Follower), creating an action p…

This study tested whether limiting food intake to an 8-hour daily window (time-restricted eating) works as well as reducing daily calories by 15% for weight loss. 115 obese adults with insulin resistance participated for 12 weeks. Researchers measured changes in weight, body fat,…

This pilot study tested the drug semaglutide (a GLP-1 receptor agonist, like Ozempic) in 8 overweight or obese adults with cystic fibrosis-related diabetes who were already using insulin. The goal was to see if adding semaglutide could safely help with weight loss and improve blo…

This study tested whether a thin, clear membrane from the back of the cornea (Descemet's membrane) can help the eye heal in people with limbal stem cell deficiency, a condition that can cause blindness. Nineteen participants received the membrane as a patch on the eye's surface. …

This study tested whether the immune-modulating drug abatacept, given early to hospitalized COVID-19 patients on low-flow oxygen, helps them recover faster compared to a placebo. A total of 285 adults participated. The goal was to see if adding abatacept to standard care improves…

This study looked at whether removing the cost of youth sports programs and providing extra family support can help low-income children ages 6 to 12 get more physical activity. About 430 kids from 20 parks in Minneapolis and Saint Paul took part over two years. The goal was to se…

This early study tested whether giving people with Crohn's disease a fecal transplant (FMT) after surgery could help prevent the disease from coming back. 23 adults who had surgery for Crohn's received FMT either by capsules or colonoscopy. The goal was to see if the capsules cou…

This study tested whether giving the drug rituximab along with a blood-filtering procedure called plasmapheresis right before a kidney transplant could prevent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) from recurring. The trial enrolled 21 children and adults with FSGS who were g…

This study tested a small vibrating device worn on the neck to see if it could make speaking easier for people with spasmodic dysphonia, a rare voice disorder. Forty participants used the device at home for 20 minutes a day over 8 weeks. They reported how much effort it took to s…

This small, completed study tested whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with computer-based cognitive training, is safe and tolerable for adults with anorexia or atypical anorexia. One participant received either real or fake stimulation over 10 sess…

This study tested whether an 8-day creativity camp could help 160 teens aged 12-17 with depression symptoms think more flexibly and feel more positive. The camp included various creative arts activities. Researchers measured changes in depression and anxiety scores using question…

This study tested a mobile app called OPY that helps patients manage pain and safely use opioids after surgery. Over 3,400 adults who had outpatient surgery and received an opioid prescription took part. The app provided daily tips, tracked pain and side effects, and encouraged p…

This completed Phase 3 trial tested whether brivaracetam, a drug used for seizures, can reduce chronic nerve pain in people with spinal cord injury. 44 adults with persistent pain took part. The study compared brivaracetam to a placebo and measured changes in pain intensity and d…

This study tested a non-invasive treatment called neurofeedback in 157 teens who had attempted suicide. During MRI scans, participants learned to control their own brain activity in real time, targeting areas linked to self-processing and emotion regulation. The goal was to reduc…

This study tested whether adding health and wellness coaching through a mobile app could help people with hearing loss get more satisfaction from their hearing aids. Thirty-four participants used the app to work with a health coach and track their progress. The goal was to see if…

This pilot study tested whether offering free, personalized legal services to people with advanced colorectal cancer could help reduce stress, financial worries, and improve quality of life. Twenty participants received help from a nonprofit legal organization for six months. Res…

This early study tested whether a faster version of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could work for major depression. Instead of daily sessions for 7 weeks, the accelerated schedule aimed to be more convenient. Only 11 people took part, and the main goal was to see if the …

This study tested whether injections of incobotulinum toxin A (similar to Botox) into muscles around the ear can relieve tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears. Forty-one adults with tinnitus for at least two months received either the drug or a placebo injection. The main go…

This study tested whether diaphragmatic breathing exercises can help people with Long COVID who have trouble breathing and feel tired. Sixteen adults who had COVID-19 at least four weeks earlier and still had symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue took part. The goal was t…

This study tested whether physical therapy for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) — which cause jaw pain, headaches, and clicking — works just as well when done virtually (via video calls) as in person. Over 200 adults with TMD were split into two groups: one received standard in-…

This study tested a support program called TACSI for people caring for a family member with both traumatic brain injury and dementia. The program included coaching and education to help caregivers manage stress and improve communication. Researchers measured changes in caregiver …

This study tested a full-mouth electronic toothbrush (FMET) to see if it reduces gum inflammation and plaque better than a regular electronic toothbrush. 94 adults with mild to moderate gingivitis used either the FMET, a conventional electronic toothbrush, or the FMET with a spec…

This study tested whether a longer-lasting pain medicine (liposomal bupivacaine) given as a nerve block before breast surgery could reduce the need for opioid painkillers after surgery compared to the standard medicine (bupivacaine). 112 adults having partial mastectomy took part…

This pilot study tested whether combining a mild brain stimulation technique (tDCS) with intensive language therapy can help people with non-fluent aphasia after a stroke. Ten participants received both real and sham stimulation during therapy sessions. The goal was to see if the…

This study tested an 8-week dynamic stability exercise program for people with thumb osteoarthritis. 21 adults did exercises at home and in clinic visits. Researchers measured joint alignment with CAT scans and ultrasound to see if the exercises help reduce pain and disability. T…

This study looked at 1,000 adults with acute low back pain who were at risk of it becoming chronic. Researchers tested whether spinal manipulation therapy combined with guided self-care (like pain education and lifestyle advice) works better than standard medical care. The treatm…

This pilot study tested whether brivaracetam, a drug used for seizures, can reduce severe nerve pain in people with chronic spinal cord injury. 24 participants received either brivaracetam or a placebo for 3 months. The study aimed to see if a larger trial is possible and measure…

This early study tested a new oral version of the Parkinson's drug levodopa/carbidopa designed to release the medication slowly over time. Six healthy volunteers took the drug to see if it could keep steady levels in the blood. The goal is to reduce the 'on-off' motor fluctuation…

This study tests whether setting up Community-Facility Transfusion Committees can help get blood to patients who need it in Kenyan hospitals. Researchers are working with 9 hospitals and local leaders to improve communication and blood delivery. The goal is to see if this approac…

This study tested whether the Club 25 program, where students pledge to donate blood 25 times in their lifetime, increases donation rates compared to standard recruitment. Over 35,000 students from 30 secondary schools in Malawi took part, with half the schools using Club 25. Res…

This study tested two training programs (in-person and online) for staff in long-term care facilities in Minnesota. The goal was to improve care for LGBTQ+ residents with Alzheimer's or other dementias. Over 700 staff members participated, and researchers measured changes in poli…

This study tested a new afterschool program where college students mentor middle schoolers to help them be more active and improve their mood. The program was designed for teens with depression symptoms who might not otherwise join afterschool activities. Researchers measured how…

This study tested whether sending motivational messages via WhatsApp or showing a docudrama about blood donation could encourage first-time donors in Ghana to donate again. Over 800 participants were split into three groups: one received WhatsApp messages, one watched a docudrama…

This study tested new paper and electronic checklists that help people describe the foods in their home. The goal was to see if these tools are accurate and easy to use for English and Spanish speakers. 439 adults who do most of the grocery shopping for their home took part. The …

This study tested a program called PorchLight Project, where trained senior companions helped families caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia. The goal was to connect families with community services and improve their interactions with doctors. Researchers measured thing…

This study tested new ways to make genetic counseling more helpful for people from all backgrounds. Over 1,000 adults completed surveys and allowed their counseling sessions to be recorded. The goal was to see if different counseling methods lead to better experiences, especially…

This study looked at how eating too much at different times of day affects inflammation and metabolism in healthy adults. Researchers measured over 50 inflammatory markers and 500 metabolites in blood samples. The goal was to understand if eating late in the evening is worse for …

This study looked at how the drug topiramate works in teenagers with severe obesity. Researchers wanted to understand why some teens lose weight while others don't, by measuring drug levels in the blood. The goal is to eventually personalize dosing for better results.

This study looked at how having a parent or friend nearby affects stress in 11-14 year olds. Researchers measured stress hormones, heart rate, and brain activity while teens did stressful math tasks. The goal was to understand why parental support becomes less effective as kids g…

This study tested a new program to help Somali families reduce exposure to secondhand smoke from shisha (hookah) at home. Fifteen Somali American families with children took part. Researchers measured smoke exposure using urine and saliva tests and surveys before and after the pr…

This study looked at how the brain develops over time in young teenage girls who have hurt themselves on purpose (non-suicidal self-injury). Researchers used interviews, brain scans (MRI), and thinking tests to understand the condition better. A total of 168 girls took part, incl…

This study tested a new, portable ultrasound device that can take a picture of the heart in less than one minute. It was used on 22 infants under 1 year old with congenital heart disease. The goal was to see if the new device's images were as good as the standard ultrasound image…

This study looked at how bacteria travel through the nose, mouth, and lungs in infants with cystic fibrosis. Researchers collected swabs and mucus samples from 7 babies over their first year of life. By analyzing the bacterial communities at each site, they hope to understand how…

This study measured levels of brain chemicals related to oxidative stress and inflammation in people with type 1 Gaucher disease and healthy volunteers. Researchers gave 33 participants with Gaucher disease the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for about 90 days to see if it cha…

This study worked with Black adults aged 55 and older who have type 2 diabetes to understand why they sit for long periods and how to help them sit less. Researchers used interviews and activity monitors to learn about the social and personal factors that lead to prolonged sittin…

This study tested an online training for pediatric primary care staff to improve how they refer parents to parenting programs. The goal was to increase enrollment in programs like GenerationPMTO, which can prevent child behavior problems. Researchers measured changes in staff com…

This study looked at how having a parent or best friend nearby affects a teenager's stress response. Researchers measured stress hormones, heart rate, and brain activity in 202 teens while they viewed emotional images. The goal was to understand how social support changes as teen…

This pilot study tested a 32-week group therapy program for adult men in prison who have committed child sexual abuse. The goal was to see if the program is feasible and can reduce factors linked to reoffending. Ten men participated, and researchers measured changes in risk, copi…

This study looked at how people aged 15-45 with early psychosis process information about their surroundings, called state representation. Researchers tested two types of cognitive training and measured changes in thinking and brain activity using computer tasks and scans. The go…

This study tested whether a gentle electrical current applied to the scalp can improve working memory in 9 adults with epilepsy who already had brain electrodes implanted. The stimulation targeted frontal and parietal brain areas at different frequencies. Researchers measured cha…

This study tested if brain stimulation works better when you're actively using your brain. 51 healthy adults received transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) while doing a cognitive or perceptual task. Researchers measured brain activity with EEG to see if the timing of the stimu…

This study tested whether delivering magnetic pulses to the brain at specific moments in your brain's natural rhythm can influence how quickly you approach or avoid things. 26 healthy adults received brain stimulation while doing a computer task. The goal was to see if the timing…

This study created a registry and biobank for people with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer, and their family members. Researchers collected genetic samples from 362 participants to compare genes of those with and without the disease. The goal is to better understand what causes o…

This study created a registry of 655 people and families with Alport syndrome to collect health information over time. The goal is to better understand how the disease progresses and to provide a foundation for testing new treatments. Participants simply share their medical histo…

This study used a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called TMS to measure how the motor cortex responds in people who have had a stroke. Researchers compared brain excitability between 24 stroke survivors and healthy individuals. The goal was to better understand how strok…

This study tested whether a full-service mobile market that sells affordable groceries (about 10% cheaper than stores) can improve diet quality and reduce food insecurity in low-income neighborhoods. Researchers enrolled 262 participants from 12 community sites, randomly assignin…

This study looked at whether continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can help predict low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in adults with type 2 diabetes. 41 participants wore either a regular CGM or a hidden one for a period of time. The goal was to compare how often low blood sugar occurr…

This study examined lungs removed from 74 people with cystic fibrosis during transplant. Researchers looked at how bacteria and chemicals differ across various parts of the lung. The goal is to better understand why infections persist and how to target treatments more precisely.

This completed study tested a new device that can record brain activity even while deep brain stimulation (DBS) is turned on. Current recorders only work after stimulation stops. The study involved one person with Parkinson's disease undergoing DBS surgery. The goal was to better…

This study looked at how past infections and damage to lymph node structures might weaken the body's long-term immune response to the yellow fever vaccine. Researchers enrolled 43 healthy adults in Uganda and Minnesota, collecting blood and lymph node samples before and after vac…

This study looked at how people aged 18-30 with early psychosis process information about their surroundings, compared to those without a psychiatric diagnosis. Participants completed computer-based tasks and cognitive training. The goal was to better understand thinking patterns…

This study involved 60 African American menthol smokers who tried six different nicotine replacement products, including mint-flavored and non-flavored gum and inhalers. After two weeks of sampling, they chose one product to help them quit smoking for another two weeks. The goal …

This study looked at whether a home body water analyzer can help detect lymphedema early in breast cancer survivors. Lymphedema is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment that causes arm swelling. 52 participants used the device at home for 12 months, and researchers comp…

This study placed a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on 24 preterm infants born before 31 weeks to track their blood sugar levels for up to 10 days. The goal was to see how well the device detects high and low blood sugar, and to link those readings to the babies' growth and brai…

This completed study looked at how people aged 15-45 with early psychosis process information from their surroundings, compared to healthy young adults. Participants completed computer tasks and had their brain activity measured using EEG and MRI scans. The goal was to better und…

This study tested a program called Home Alone for older adults (55+) with mild cognitive impairment or memory loss who live alone. The program involves weekly one-hour coaching sessions over several months to help participants stay engaged, active, and safe at home. Researchers m…

This study tested a program called Link for Equity, which trains school staff in trauma-informed care and cultural humility. The goal was to reduce racial/ethnic disparities in school violence and discipline. Over 1,600 staff from 12 Minnesota schools participated, with some rece…

This study tested a program called Link for Equity in 12 Minnesota secondary schools with many students of color. The program trained staff to recognize racism and provided students with support, including conversations about microaggressions and trauma. Researchers measured chan…