Characterising the impact of viral infection upon cardiovascular risk
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Characterisation of the impact of acute or chronic viral infections and antiviral therapies upon vascular function and cardiovascular risk
IRAS ID
294707
Contact name
Marta Boffito
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Antiviral therapy has been successful in managing both acute (e.g. coronavirus) and chronic (e.g. HIV) viral infections. Endothelial cells line the veins and arteries of the vascular system. Abnormal endothelial function has been well documented in the development and progression of cardiovascular (heart) disease. Endothelial cells can also influence the activation of immune cells (white blood cells/leukocytes) and platelets (clot-forming cells) found circulating in the blood. When platelets start to behave abnormally, it can lead to the formation of blood clots at inappropriate times, for example in coronary vessels to cause heart attacks or in the brain to cause strokes. The aim of this project is to understand how viral infection and antiviral drugs affect endothelial cells, leukocytes and platelets and impact risk of cardiovascular disease. This research will help us understand the basis of heart disease in the context of viral infection and better tailor antiviral therapies to patients’ needs.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/NW/0148
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jun 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion