University Of California, San Diego
Clinical trials sponsored by University Of California, San Diego, explained in plain language.
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New weight loss program targets food cravings, not just calories
Disease control OngoingThis study tests a new program called ROC+ for people who are very responsive to food cues (like seeing or smelling food). It compares ROC+ to standard behavioral weight loss programs. 300 adults with overweight or obesity and high food responsiveness will participate. The goal i…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:21 UTC
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One-person trial aims to slow rare brain disease
Disease control OngoingThis study tests an experimental drug called an antisense oligonucleotide in one person with TUBB4A-related leukodystrophy, a rare genetic disorder that damages the brain's white matter. The goal is to see if the treatment can improve or stabilize movement problems like dystonia …
Phase: PHASE1, PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:18 UTC
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New combo aims to wipe out lingering leukemia cells
Disease control OngoingThis study tests whether adding cirmtuzumab to the standard drug venetoclax can eliminate remaining cancer cells in people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It involves 5 adults who still have detectable leukemia despite at least 12 months of venetoclax. The goal is to see…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:13 UTC
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New combo aims to reduce dangerous side effect in blood cancer treatment
Disease control OngoingThis early-phase study tests whether giving rituximab and high-dose steroids before venetoclax can safely lower the number of cancer cells in people with relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). The goal is to reduce the risk …
Phase: PHASE1 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:57 UTC
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Radiation-Immuno combo aims to boost HPV throat cancer response before surgery
Disease control OngoingThis study tests whether giving targeted radiation along with two immunotherapy drugs (evorpacept and pembrolizumab) before standard surgery can improve outcomes for people with early-stage HPV-related throat cancer. About 29 adults with stage I disease that can be surgically rem…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:57 UTC
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Parent coaching via video call helps kids with autism shed pounds
Disease control OngoingThis study tests a telehealth program that coaches parents of children with autism and overweight (ages 6-12) on healthy habits, compared to standard health education. About 140 families will participate. The goal is to see if parent-only training can improve children's weight an…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:56 UTC
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Drug shrinks kidney tumors, may spare patients from full organ removal
Disease control OngoingThis study tested the drug axitinib in 22 people with a type of kidney cancer (clear cell renal cell carcinoma) who needed surgery but had complex tumors that made it hard to remove only the cancerous part. The goal was to see if taking axitinib before surgery could shrink the tu…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:00 UTC
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Peer power: new program aims to slash overdose deaths with drug checking and Safe-Use coaching
Disease control OngoingThis study tests a program where trained peers use motivational interviewing to encourage people who use drugs to check their drugs and adopt safer use habits. The goal is to reduce overdoses and prevent HIV and hepatitis C infections. About 588 adults in San Diego County who use…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 14, 2026 12:06 UTC
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Eat in 10 hours, lose weight? new study tests the clock
Disease control OngoingThis study looks at whether limiting eating to a 10-hour period each day can help people with obesity lose weight and reduce body fat. About 61 adults who typically eat over 14 hours daily will either get standard nutrition advice or combine that advice with a 10-hour eating wind…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 14, 2026 12:04 UTC
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New portable scanner could replace needle biopsies for fatty liver
Diagnosis OngoingThis study tests a new portable device called LiverScope that uses simplified MRI technology to measure fat in the liver without needles or surgery. About 50 adults with known or suspected fatty liver disease will have a one-time scan with LiverScope, a standard MRI, and optional…
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Diagnosis
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:13 UTC
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Online workout aims to keep seniors on their feet
Prevention OngoingThis study tests a 12-week exercise program delivered online to help older adults prevent falls. Sixty people aged 60 and older will either start the program right away or wait 12 weeks before starting. Researchers will measure leg strength and grip strength to see if the program…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 19, 2026 11:46 UTC
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New digital program aims to keep seniors on their feet and out of harm's way
Prevention OngoingThis study tests a 12-week, digitally delivered exercise program designed to improve balance, strength, and posture in older adults at risk of falling. Researchers will enroll 92 participants aged 60 and older, including those from lower-income backgrounds, and measure changes in…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 15, 2026 11:57 UTC
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California communities unite to stop sexual violence before it starts
Prevention ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether a community-led program called Close to Home can prevent sexual violence among young people aged 14 to 24. Researchers will compare 9 communities using the program with 9 similar communities that are not. The goal is to see if strengthening community c…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 13, 2026 15:58 UTC
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New combo therapy targets tough depression
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests a new approach for people with depression that hasn't improved with standard treatments. It combines a type of brain stimulation called iTBS with digital mindfulness training. The goal is to improve attention and reduce depression symptoms. About 70 adults with m…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:24 UTC
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One shot to beat pain: new study could simplify ankle surgery recovery
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study compares a single injection of liposomal bupivacaine (a long-lasting painkiller) to a continuous nerve block (which uses a pump and tube) for pain after ankle surgery. About 140 adults having moderate-to-severely painful ankle surgery will take part. The goal is to see…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:23 UTC
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Nerve block breakthrough: could a 7-Day treatment end phantom limb pain?
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests whether a continuous nerve block given for 7 days after a leg amputation can prevent or reduce phantom limb pain and the need for opioids. About 200 adults scheduled for lower leg amputation will receive either a numbing medicine or a placebo through a tiny tube …
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:21 UTC
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CBD may ease Meal-Time fear in anorexia patients
Symptom relief OngoingThis early-stage study looks at whether pure cannabidiol (CBD) can safely reduce anxiety around mealtimes in people with anorexia nervosa. Researchers will give CBD to 40 participants and monitor side effects, blood levels, and changes in eating behaviors. The goal is to see if C…
Phase: EARLY_PHASE1 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:12 UTC
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Can cannabis stop a migraine in its tracks?
Symptom relief TerminatedThis small study tests whether inhaling cannabis can quickly stop a migraine headache. Twenty adults with migraines will try three different strengths of cannabis and a placebo to see which one works best for pain and other symptoms like nausea or light sensitivity. The study is …
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:11 UTC
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New painkiller aims to ease recovery after breast surgery
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether the FDA-approved painkiller suzetrigine can reduce pain after non-mastectomy breast surgery. About 120 adults will receive the drug along with a nerve block, and their pain levels will be compared to past patients. The goal is to find a better way to mana…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:57 UTC
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Pre-Surgery back workouts may boost spine surgery results
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether strengthening your back muscles before spine surgery can lead to better outcomes, like less pain and a shorter hospital stay. About 70 adults scheduled for spine surgery will do a pre-operative exercise program. Researchers will track if this reduces t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:57 UTC
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Could a ketone drink curb binge eating and anxiety?
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests whether a ketone supplement drink can reduce urges to binge eat or restrict food, and improve mood and anxiety in people with anorexia or bulimia. About 40 participants will take the drink or a placebo for two weeks while researchers measure changes in eating beh…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 26, 2026 03:55 UTC
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ADHD and weight study for kids canceled before it began
Symptom relief TerminatedThis study aimed to help children ages 8-12 with both ADHD and overweight or obesity. Parents would have learned special skills to support their child's behavior and executive function through online sessions. However, the study was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:03 UTC
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Freezing nerves could replace opioids for rib fracture pain
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a single nerve-freezing procedure called cryoneurolysis to provide months of pain relief after rib fractures, without opioids or side effects. About 120 adults with 1-6 broken ribs will receive either the real treatment or a sham procedure. The goal is to see if …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:01 UTC
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Could CBD tame severe autism behaviors? new study investigates
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests whether cannabidiol (CBD) can reduce severe behavior problems like aggression, self-harm, and repetitive actions in children with autism. About 42 boys aged 7-14 with severe autism and daily behavioral issues will receive both CBD and a placebo at different times…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:01 UTC
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Brain zapping trial aims to ease anorexia symptoms
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called TMS can help people with anorexia nervosa. The goal is to change brain circuits involved in body perception and eating behaviors. The trial includes 40 women aged 18-45 with anorexia, and will measure how …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 22, 2026 13:54 UTC
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Could a 5-Minute freeze replace opioids after mastectomy?
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a one-time, non-opioid treatment called cryoneurolysis to reduce pain after mastectomy (breast removal surgery). By temporarily freezing the nerves that supply the breast, the goal is to lessen short- and long-term pain and cut down on opioid use. About 216 adult…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 22, 2026 13:50 UTC
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Could a simple ear device calm your heart at night?
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis early study tests whether wearing a small device on the ear during sleep can safely reduce premature heartbeats (PVCs) and improve quality of life. Sixteen adults with frequent PVCs will use the device nightly for 10 weeks. The main goals are to see if it is safe, comfortabl…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 20, 2026 11:54 UTC
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New combo treatment aims to quiet suicidal thoughts fast
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests whether a nasal spray (esketamine) combined with a short therapy program can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts in people with hard-to-treat depression. About 56 adults aged 18-70 with ongoing suicidal thoughts will receive either the combo treatment or esketamine …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 19, 2026 12:01 UTC
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New pain pump method could mean longer relief after surgery
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests two methods of delivering pain medicine through a small tube placed near nerves after arm or foot/ankle surgery. One method gives a steady flow of medicine, while the other gives small, timed bursts that patients can adjust. The goal is to see which approach prov…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:07 UTC
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Brain training may boost memory in early Alzheimer's
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests a computer-based brain-training program for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), an early stage of Alzheimer's disease. The training aims to improve working memory by teaching participants to increase certain brain activity. The goal is to see if this app…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:04 UTC
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New device could replace opioids for weeks of pain relief after surgery
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a device called RELAY that delivers numbing medicine and gentle electrical pulses to nerves after shoulder or foot surgery. The goal is to provide up to 28 days of pain relief, much longer than current options. About 50 adults will receive either the active devic…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:02 UTC
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New device aims to replace opioids for weeks of pain relief after surgery
Symptom relief TerminatedThis study was testing a device called RELAY that delivers both local anesthetic and mild electrical pulses to nerves after knee surgery, potentially providing up to 28 days of pain control. It was designed for adults having foot or shoulder surgery expected to cause moderate to …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:02 UTC
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Meditation boosts brain zaps to fight depression
Symptom relief OngoingThis study tests a new way to treat depression by combining brain stimulation (TMS) with a meditation-like state of focused attention. The goal is to improve how well TMS works for people with moderate to severe depression who haven't gotten better with antidepressants. About 50 …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 15, 2026 11:55 UTC
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Can a text and fitbit program get latina teens moving?
Symptom relief ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a 12-month program to help Latina teenagers become more physically active. Researchers will enroll 200 teens who are not very active. Half will get counseling, a personalized website, a Fitbit, text messages, and Instagram support; the other half will only get a …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 13, 2026 16:06 UTC
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Could your next meal help prevent colon polyps?
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether a plant-based Mediterranean diet can improve gut health in people who have had colon polyps removed. Researchers will check stool and blood samples over 8 weeks to see if the diet changes gut bacteria and lowers inflammation. The goal is to understand …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:24 UTC
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Can a simple brain wave test unlock secrets of anorexia?
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study explores whether electroencephalography (EEG), a simple and affordable brain wave test, can measure how the brain processes rewards in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Researchers will compare EEG results with those from expensive MRI scans in 47 girls aged 11-17. Th…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:22 UTC
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New study aims to help millions of women with bladder leaks get better care
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at two methods to improve care for women with urinary incontinence (bladder leaks) in primary care settings. About 1200 women will take part to see if electronic specialist advice or a nurse-led program works better. The goal is to find which approach helps docto…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:18 UTC
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Smartwatch study aims to predict dangerous Post-Birth high blood pressure
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study will give 300 new mothers a medical-grade smartwatch to continuously monitor their blood pressure for 6 weeks after delivery. Researchers want to see how blood pressure changes differ between low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk women. The goal is to learn how to…
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:18 UTC
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Brain scans reveal why stress triggers binge eating
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at how negative emotions change the way the brain processes food rewards and choices in people with binge eating disorder or bulimia. Researchers will use brain scans and real-life mood tracking to understand these links. The goal is to find brain-based targets f…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:12 UTC
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Scientists test hair and nail clippings to track what we really eat
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to see if measuring stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in blood, hair, and fingernails could more accurately track what people eat compared to standard diet surveys. Researchers planned to feed healthy adults controlled meals and then compare isotope levels in t…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 26, 2026 04:11 UTC
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Study probes Cannabis-HIV drug interactions
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at how cannabis use changes the levels of HIV medications in the blood and brain, and whether it affects mood and thinking. It involves 120 people in an observation phase and 40 people in a phase where they receive cannabis or a placebo. The goal is to understand…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:03 UTC
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Mailed cancer tests face off: which stool test gets more people screened?
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study compares two at-home stool tests—Cologuard and FIT—mailed to adults aged 45-49 who are due for colorectal cancer screening. Researchers want to see which test leads to more people completing screening. About 400 participants from the UCSD Health system will take part, …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:03 UTC
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New training aims to boost daily living skills in older adults with schizophrenia
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study tests a new program that combines executive function training with cognitive-behavioral social skills training for adults aged 60 and older with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. The goal is to see if the combined approach helps improve daily living skills, su…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 22, 2026 14:02 UTC
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ICU checks every hour vs. every two hours: which wakes patients less?
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at how often nurses should check on patients in the ICU after a brain aneurysm repair. Thirty adults who had a coiling procedure will be randomly assigned to get checks every hour or every two hours. Researchers will measure their sleep quality using brain wave r…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 22, 2026 13:55 UTC
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Scientists probe why back muscles fail to heal in chronic pain patients
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at why people with chronic low back pain and disc injuries have trouble recovering their back muscles, even with exercise or surgery. Researchers will measure nerve signals, muscle activity, and tissue changes in 152 participants to find what limits recovery. The…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 22, 2026 13:51 UTC
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Parkinson's study: does standing up cloud your thinking?
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study aimed to understand how changes in blood pressure when standing up affect thinking abilities and brain blood flow in people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers planned to compare those with and without orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing) using …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 20, 2026 11:57 UTC
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Liver and skin disease study pulled before start
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study was designed to see if a medication called guselkumab, already approved for psoriatic disease, could also improve fatty liver disease in people with both conditions. It planned to enroll adults with psoriatic arthritis who were overweight and had high liver fat. Howeve…
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 20, 2026 11:54 UTC
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New program aims to help doctors better treat bladder leakage in women
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study tests a program to help primary care doctors provide better care for women with urinary incontinence (bladder leakage). About 1,600 women and their doctors will take part. The program includes training, decision-support tools, and easier referrals to specialists. Resea…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 19, 2026 11:59 UTC
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New program aims to cut HIV stigma and risk for drug users in kyrgyzstan
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study tests a program called LIFT to reduce HIV risk and stigma among 80 people who inject drugs in Kyrgyzstan. Participants join peer-led group sessions to build support and learn how to better access HIV services. The goal is to see if the program lowers stigma and increas…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:12 UTC
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Kidney stone stent reflux study pulled before it began
Knowledge-focused TerminatedThis study was designed to measure how often urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureter after placing a special stent (RELIEF) in people with kidney stones. Researchers planned to use X-ray imaging to check for reflux and track any symptoms. However, the study was with…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:07 UTC
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New MRI scan may predict prostate cancer treatment outcomes
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study involves 100 men with high-risk, localized prostate cancer who are scheduled for radiation and hormone therapy. Researchers will use an advanced MRI technique called Restriction Spectrum Imaging (RSI-MRI) to see if it can predict how well the cancer responds to treatme…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 18, 2026 12:04 UTC
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Prenatal classes may prevent postpartum trauma, new study suggests
Knowledge-focused ENROLLING_BY_INVITATIONThis study looks at whether teaching first-time mothers about common events during labor can lower their risk of post-traumatic stress after giving birth. Researchers will enroll 400 pregnant women and give them surveys before and after delivery to measure stress and fear. The go…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 13, 2026 16:01 UTC
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New strategy aims to boost depression screening for kids
Knowledge-focused OngoingThis study looks at whether a team-based plan can help doctors and staff better screen children for depression and connect them to mental health services. About 40 healthcare workers at a children's hospital will use a team charter to clarify roles and improve coordination. The g…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: University of California, San Diego • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 12, 2026 13:42 UTC