• Metabolism Research Study--Healthy Volunteers Needed

    Official Title Adipocyte-T Cell Interactions Modulate Adipose Inflammation and Insulin Sensitivity Following Weight Gain

    Purpose

    The purpose of this research study is to better understand the role of fat tissue, how cells in fat tissue communicate, and determine what signals specific cells use to cause inflammation and insulin resistance during weight gain. This may help researchers better understand the process that happens in Type 2 Diabetes. As a result, through the course of six--nine weeks, participants will be asked to gain at least 10% of their starting body weight. A dietitian will meet with participants to give advice to help with meeting the study weight gain goals, as well as provide additional meal vouchers and supplemental shakes as needed. Following the study, participants will receive guidance how to lose the weight they've gained if they would like to do that.

    Could this study be right for you?

    You may be eligible if you:

    • Are 18-60 years of age
    • Are lean; Have a BMI 18-24.9 kg/m2 (*see link below for calculating your BMI -- Body Mass Index)
    • Have healthy levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (These will be tested at screening)
    • Are a non-smoker
    • Are non-diabetic
    • Are free of chronic illness
    • Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

    *Calculate your BMI

    Exclusion Criteria:

    • Fasting triglycerides > 150 mg/dL or nonfasting triglycerides ˃ 250 mg/dl
    • LDL-Cholesterol level > 150 mg/dL
    • Presence of significant anemia (hemoglobin <10.0 gm/dL)
    • Currently or planning to take blood thinners
    • Current smokers
    • Have taken steroids or anti-inflammatory meds for >6 months in the last 6 months
    • >10% body weight loss within 3 months of enrollment
    • *Other exclusions may apply

    Age Range

    18 and up
  • The REGENERATE Study - A study to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a medication (Obeticholic Acid) for those with NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis)

    Official Title A Phase 3, Double-Blind, Randomized, Long-Term, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Obeticholic Acid in Subjects with Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

    Purpose

    This research study is for those who have nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (meaning your liver is swollen and damaged because of a buildup of fat in your liver) and some liver fibrosis (which is damaged and scarred liver tissue). Because of your condition, you may be eligible for a research study on an investigational drug for your condition. The Regenerate Study will assess the safety and effectiveness of the investigational medication obeticholic acid (OCA) compared to placebo in delaying specific medical conditions or health related issues that can occur in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (meaning your liver is swollen and damaged because of a buildup of fat in your liver) and some liver fibrosis (which is damaged and scarred liver tissue).

    Could this study be right for you?

    • Age 18 or older
    • Diagnosed with Stage 2 or 3 NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis--meaning your liver is swollen and damaged because of a buildup of fat in your liver) and some liver fibrosis (which is damaged and scarred liver tissue).

    If you are eligible and decide to take part in this research study, you will need to complete 1 or 2 screening visits to see if you are eligible to participate in the study. Once the study doctor determines you can participate in the study, you will be asked to come back to the clinic 8 times (for the Month 0 [Day 1] Visit, the Month 1 Visit, the Month 3 Visit, and then every 3 months) for the first 18 months you are in the study and then 2 times per year (every 6 months) for each additional year you are in the study.

    Age Range

    18 and up
  • A Study for Those with Diabetic Macular Edema--The BOULEVARD Study

    Official Title A PHASE 3, DOUBLE-MASKED, RANDOMIZED STUDY OF THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF INTRAVITREAL AFLIBERCEPT INJECTION IN PATIENTS WITH MODERATELY SEVERE TO SEVERE NONPROLIFERATIVE DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

    Purpose

    The purpose of this 28-week study to investigate the effects and safety of a medication in participants with Center Involving Diabetic Macular Edema (CI-DME). .

    Could this study be right for you?

    • 18 years and older
    • Macular edema associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR)
    • Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM)

    Age Range

    18 and up