Association between gut permeability and immune function in children
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Characterising the association between gut permeability and immune function in children with acute infections
IRAS ID
215510
Contact name
Andrew Prendergast
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Mary, University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
This is an observational study looking at the association between changes in the immune system and how leaky the gut is in children with a non-gastrointestinal infection. It is known that in serious infections the gut becomes leakier, which can allow bacterial products to cross the gut wall more easily. The immune system also becomes over-stimulated which can lead to worse outcomes and end-organ damage. Following this, there is a period where the immune system is less good at fighting off infections.
This study will look at the leakiness of the gut in children under 5 years old admitted to hospital with an infection, and also look at the type and function of the monocyte cells in the immune system. This will be compared with children who do not have an infection.
The gut leakiness will be measured by a lactulose-mannitol test, in which a sugary solution containing these two sugars will be given to the child. The levels of these sugars in the urine will give an indication how leaky the gut is. How well the immune system is working, as well as levels of bacterial products in the blood will be measured by taking some blood from the child. This study will be conducted at one hospital site, and last a maximum of 24 months.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/2213
Date of REC Opinion
25 Jan 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion