Circulating microRNAs as biomarkers for prediction of preschool wheeze
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Circulating micro RNAs, novel biomarkers for prediction of pre-school wheeze and subsequent asthma
IRAS ID
356642
Contact name
Mohammed Aref Kyyaly
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Southampton Solent University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
Many young children experience wheezing; a high-pitched sound when breathing which in some cases can become a persistent problem and develop into asthma. Asthma is a serious condition that affects lung function and can lead to significant health issues. Currently, there is no reliable test to diagnose asthma in very young children because standard breathing tests used for older children or adults are not practical for them. This gap in diagnosis creates an urgent need for a simple, accurate test that can predict which wheezy children are more likely to develop asthma.
This study explores the use of small molecules called microRNAs as diagnostic markers for asthma in preschool children. MicroRNAs are natural regulators of cell functions at a genetic level, and they can be found in many body fluids, including blood. Because only a small blood sample is needed to detect them, microRNAs are a promising candidate for developing a non-invasive test for asthma.
Our research will begin with a systematic review of published studies to identify microRNAs that have been linked to childhood wheeze and asthma. Then, we will analyze blood samples collected from children who have been followed from birth into later childhood. By comparing microRNA patterns in children who experienced wheezing and later developed asthma with those who did not, we aim to identify specific panels of microRNAs that can predict the risk of asthma.
The findings could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of asthma in children, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. This would help ensure that children who are at risk receive closer monitoring and earlier support, potentially improving long-term health outcomes.
REC name
London - Bloomsbury Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0366
Date of REC Opinion
4 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion