Review for 10.1186/s12876-021-01856-9 (2021)

Reviewer’s report
Title: 
Daily, Oral FMT for Long-term Maintenance Therapy in Ulcerative
Colitis: Results of a single-center, prospective, randomized pilot study.
Version: 
1 
Date: 
18 Apr 2021
Reviewer's report:
This interesting manuscript describes a small randomized controlled (pilot) study
of cFMT as an induction therapy for mild active UC patients. I agree with the
other reviewers that this study is of interest because of the use of capsules, and
daily dosing regimen. The manuscript provides useful pilot data that can be used
to design further trials. On the other hand, the number of patients is very small,
precluding meaningful conclusions. In my view, 
this work deserves publication.
In my view, 
this work is worth to be published. 
I have some minor additional comments
The study was terminated after inclusion of 12 patients. This should be noted
with a (very short) explanation in the results. 
Abstract: results 3rd line: ….. and longitudinal oral treatment. Please add
"placebo"
Background: 3rd paragraph, oral formulations, references 15-18 
Reference seems
not correct? 
Methods: was there a rational for dosing 0.5 gram of feces per day?
Results:
- Consider presenting median instead of mean values for baseline characteristics
and outcomes (for example calprotectin) given the small sample size
- I still miss information about the feasibility; any major problems with the
storage of the feces? Was it a (logistical) challenge for both the researchers and
patients? In the results section about safety, it is mentioned that many patients
expressed frustration regarding strict study guidelines. This could be described
more extensively (as this was a primary objective). How many patients? Did
they travel or was travelling not possible at all?
Discussion;
- More focus on the results of your primary endpoint (safety and feasibility)
would be of interest.
- Last two sentences of first paragraph (…. temperature stable formulations
should be pursued. Lyophilized fecal preparations ….): although I agree with
those statements, they require some introduction in the preceding text
- The discussion could be shortened considerably
- Please provide some suggestions for future studies, and dosing based on your
experience. 
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