If you would like to participate in the trial please contact the Trial Team by either of the following methods:

Email: aspire-dna@imperial.ac.uk

Telephone: 075 6879 1304 

 

What is the ASPIRE-DNA clinical trial?

The ASPIRE-DNA clinical trial is investigating the effectiveness of a DNA-based diet on reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in people who have pre-diabetes. Trial participants are randomly allocated to one of three goups of the trial. Some participants will receive their DNA results and subsequent dietary advice to improve their general health and identify any change in their glucose regulation. In addition, some participants will use an App to deliver this nutrition information. All participants will be monitored over the course of 12 weeks to identify any changes in glucose regulation (a primary indicator of diabetes risk), with a final follow up measurement at 26 weeks.  

What is a DNA-based diet? 

A DNA-based diet is a set of dietary guidelines that are based on your specific genetic traits. It  involves performing a genetic test, using a saliva sample from the inside of your cheek. The saliva undergoes analysis through DNA sequencing technology. This DNA test does not analyse your entire DNA sequence, instead it only analyses certain genetic markers related to your ability to metabolise nutrients. Analysing these specific markers allows us to understand how your body may respond to certain foods and your risk of developing certain conditions in the future. We then use this information to provide you with nutrition  advice via the DnaNudge App.   

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that is characterised by high levels of sugar in the blood. There are many different types of diabetes including type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. For our research we are focusing on pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a condition where you have higher than normal blood sugar levels, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It is known that 25-75% of people with pre-diabetes will go on to develop type 2 diabetes within ten years. Therefore, it is important to mange your lifestyle, particularly the foods you eat. There are many factors that can increase your chances of developing diabetes including:

  • Being overweight
  • High blood pressure
  • Having an immediate family member with diabetes
  • Being  over 40 years old if you are Caucasian or over 25 years old if you are African-Caribbean, Black African or South Asian.

Who is eligible for the ASPIRE-DNA trial?

The ASPIRE-DNA team are looking for men and women who are;

-          Above the age of eighteen years

-          Have pre-diabetes

-          Have access to a smartphone with an operating system of iOS 8.0 or above or Android 4.0 or above to take part in the trial.

For a full list of the inclusion and exclusion criteria please see Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria. 

How can I participate in the trial?

If you would like more information, or are interested in taking part in this trial, please click here.