Study of the gastrointestinal microbiota (colon bacteria) in patients with and without breast cancer

The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not the composition of the gastrointestinal tract bacteria, Achaea, viruses, fungi or their metabolic activity is altered in breast cancer. A total of 800 subjects will be recruited at Rush University Medical Center, in the Midwest states and in southern California. Subjects will be asked to complete questionnaires, a blood draw and two stool collections. This study will analyze the DNA and RNA from your cells and from different specimens found naturally in your body (i.e. stool and blood). The study-related tests are meant to understand how our cells and microbial cells interact with each other and with their environment.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Have a history of breast cancer within the past five years
• Have no personal history of breast cancer and had a normal mammogram
• Have no personal history of breast cancer and had an abnormal mammogram
• Have no personal history of breast cancer but a first-degree family member does have breast cancer

You will be excluded from this study if you:

• Are not between the ages of 30 and 80
• Have gastrointestinal diseases
• Have been on antibiotics, immunosuppressants or hormone therapy drugs within past three months

This is a partial list of eligibility requirements. To inquire about your eligibility, please call the contact number provided. If you wish to inquire via email, please include the title of the study in your message.