Circulating miRNAs as a diagnostic test for asthma and its severity
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Circulating miRNAs as a diagnostic test for asthma and to identify asthma severity risk
IRAS ID
288510
Contact name
Ramesh Kurukulaaratchy
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Asthma is one of the commonest causes of breathing difficulties in the UK. It causes much disability to those who suffer with it and places a big strain on the NHS. However, at present, there are no reliable specific tests that can diagnose asthma. Genes are made up of DNA and RNA components. The field of Transcriptomics assesses the RNA components of genes and how they are expressed in cells. Transcriptomic analyses using screening technology can define how the expression of genes can change in cells in relation to health and disease. A subtype of RNA components called microRNA (miRNA) is found within the blood circulation.
• The main aim of the study is to identify specific molecular changes that are linked to a diagnosis of asthma. We will also identify if there are any differences in molecular changes of miRNA between people with severe asthma compared to mild asthma. As a result, the miRNA changes could be used as markers to help diagnose asthma and determine its severity.
Methods
• We will use scientific techniques to extract miRNAs from the blood samples of all subjects and perform a detailed analysis of the miRNAs using the specialised RNA-screening technology.
• We will also look specifically for differences in the molecular changes present in the miRNAs of (i) asthmatics compared to those who never had asthma, and (ii) severe asthmatics compared to mild asthmatics.
• We will perform detailed computational data analysis (bioinformatics) to identify molecular features in miRNAs that are unique to asthma.
• Our SME partner will work on translating these findings into a quick diagnostic test that could be used in primary cares for diagnosis of asthma.
This project will use cutting-edge technology to both make a proper diagnosis of asthma and the determination of its severity.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
20/WA/0301
Date of REC Opinion
5 Nov 2020
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion