A novel approach using biospectroscopy for the Investigation of CVID
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of biospectroscopy for the analysis of blood plasma or serum in CVID patients: a novel approach for the investigation of immune disorders
IRAS ID
202518
Contact name
Emma Callery
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 15 days
Research summary
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the name given to a group of disorders that affect how effectively the immune system functions, and its ability to produce antibodies responsible for fighting infection. Decreased antibody production can result in recurrent bacterial infections, with nearly all CVID patients affected by respiratory tract infections. In more severe forms patients have multiple disease-related complications, such as autoimmune conditions and cancers.\nIn most cases of CVID (90%) the causes are unknown. Genetic mutations have been identified as underlying causes in approximately 10% of patients. Diagnosis is one of exclusion and CVID is predominantly a laboratory definition. Scientific knowledge around the disease-causing pathways is lacking, with immune defects thought to be multi-factorial and complex. The average delay in diagnosis of CVID is around 4-5 years, however 20% of patients are diagnosed 15 years after onset of symptoms. This can result in patients suffering from serious infections, such as pneumonia, which may cause irreversible lung damage. Patients can feel frustrated and distressed when a diagnosis is finally made, especially those who have suffered for a long time. \nBiospectroscopy is an emerging area; recently used in cancer studies to differentiate between disease categories. Recent advances have increased understanding of biofluids by generating a ‘biochemical fingerprint’ to identify molecules within a sample. This may offer a new perspective on the underlying causes of CVID. This study aims to seek out disease-related changes in the ‘biochemical fingerprint’ of CVID patients compared to controls. This will initially be piloted in a small cohort due to the rarity of the disease. \nBiospectroscopy has the potential to provide a greater insight into the pathology of CVID, and may have implications for future diagnostics. Improved screening methods for patients would greatly improve the current patient pathway, reduce diagnostic delays and improve subsequent management.\n
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0502
Date of REC Opinion
16 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion