Could a home workout program reshape the gut and tame chemo toxicity?

NCT ID NCT06202183

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 19, 2026 · Last updated Aug 20, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a 12-week home-based exercise program can alter the gut microbiome in young adults (ages 18-50) with colorectal cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy. Participants are randomly assigned to either the exercise group or a waitlist control group. Researchers will compare changes in gut bacteria, chemotherapy side effects, and treatment outcomes between the two groups.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: A 12-week home-based exercise program with aerobic and resistance training, virtually supervised, including a stationary bike, resistance bands, and a Fitbit.
What this could lead to: If exercise shifts the gut microbiome in a beneficial way, it could help reduce chemotherapy side effects and improve treatment outcomes for young colorectal cancer patients.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small, early-stage trial, so results may not apply to all patients. The exercise program may be hard to stick with, and the impact on the microbiome and treatment outcomes is uncertain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

colonic neoplasm colorectal cancer colorectal neoplasm metastatic malignant neoplasm in the colon

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COLORECTAL CANCER METASTATIC COLON CANCER METASTATIC COLORECTAL CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Dana Farber Cancer Institute
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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