Antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy: Effects on the placenta
IRAS ID
201049
Contact name
Rohan Lewis
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Antiretroviral treatment in pregnancy significantly reduces transmission of HIV to the baby. However, antiretroviral therapy may be associated with changes in immune function in pregnancy and an increased risk of preterm delivery. The effect of anti-retroviral on the pregnancy may in part be dependent on whether treatment was begun prior to conception or afterward. This study will investigate the effects of antiretroviral treatment on the placenta focusing on immune related macrophage cells. In doing so, we hope to understand the mechanisms underlying negative impacts of essential antiretroviral therapy so that strategies can be developed to minimise these, Placentas will be collected and sampled as part of a study by the University of Capetown and specific samples sent to the University of Southampton for analysis.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
16/WA/0181
Date of REC Opinion
1 Jun 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion