Calcitonin receptor over-expression in multiple myeloma (version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Calcitonin receptor (CTR) over-expression in bone marrow trephines (BMTs)/soft tissue as an early diagnostic marker in patients with multiple myeloma (MM).
IRAS ID
203839
Contact name
Emma Elizabeth Hoare
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 9 days
Research summary
Research question: ‘Is there a statistically significant difference between CTR expression in the tissue of patients with MM compared to that of patients without MM?’
MM is a malignancy of the plasma cells. The role of the CTR in MM is not fully understood. It is thought that CTR over-expression is induced within the tumour microenvironment in the tissue of patients with MM, even at low level disease. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining is used to investigate this hypothesis.
IHC is a technique whereby tissue constituents, termed ‘antigens’ are identified using antigen-antibody interactions; the site of interaction is visualised using a labelling system.
Case and control (n = 30 per group) BMT/soft tissue specimens will be stained with anti-CTR and anti-CD138 antibodies. The results will be analysed to determine the CTR-positive percentage staining of the tumour microenvironment. Statistical analysis will determine if there is a significant difference in the CTR-positive staining between the two groups. We hypothesise that CTR over-expression is seen in the tissue of patients with MM compared to a control group. Therefore the CTR can potentially be used as a diagnostic marker for MM. A confirmed hypothesis would indicate a benefit to patients with a low tumour load and in terms of allowing earlier treatment. The CTR could also serve as a potential, novel imaging, monitoring or therapy target.
The aims of the project are to demonstrate:
1. A correlation between CTR expression and MM.
2. A correlation between CTR expression and MM disease burden.
3. That CTR over-expression can be used as a diagnostic marker for MM.
The study will be conducted at King’s College Hospital over approximately 3 months. Funding will be provided by Viapath and/or Bloodwise.REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0875
Date of REC Opinion
6 Jun 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion