Genetic Epidemiology of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC)
United States1,500 participantsStarted 2002-03
Plain-language summary
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) is a progressive liver disorder of unknown cause. Current evidence suggests that genes, the genetic material we inherit from our parents, in combination with environmental factors, likely play an important role in the development of PBC.
This study is being done to investigate whether genes make people more likely to develop PBC. Discovery of these proposed genes will help us better understand how PBC developes, and subsequently, to apply new approaches for its prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 90 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Men and women between the ages of 18-90 who have a history of PBC.
* PBC patients who have undergone a liver transplant are eligible.
* Family members (1st degree relatives) of enrolled PBC patients are eligible.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Individuals with no history of PBC or those unable to provide consent.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Mapping of Susceptibility Genes in Adult Chronic Cholestatic Liver Diseases