Cognitive function and physical activity in lupus - v 1.2
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Cognitive dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus: an exploratory study on the underlying mechanisms and the role of physical activity
IRAS ID
333098
Contact name
Tiago Pecanha
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester Metropolitan University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 0 days
Research summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease marked by fluctuating symptoms and multiple system involvement. SLE patients often experience neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anxiety/depression, headache, and cognitive dysfunction. Among them, cognitive dysfunction is one of the most prevalent (affecting 38% of all patients) and debilitating symptoms in SLE, with a profound socioeconomic impact. The precise causes of cognitive dysfunction in SLE are uncertain but may arise from structural/functional changes in the brain, which need to be better investigated using comprehensive neuroimaging methods. Additionally, there are still limited treatment options for cognitive dysfunction in SLE. In recent years, physical activity has been widely explored in the clinical management of symptom burden in SLE, showing positive effects in the control of the disease and improvement of quality life. However, it is currently unknown if having a physically active lifestyle associates with better cognitive function on SLE, warranting further investigation. The present project is an observational study that will collect data on cognitive function, brain structure and function and physical activity in individuals with SLE. Specifically, the project intends to explore underlying brain mechanisms associated with cognitive dysfunction in SLE; and the associations between physical activity/sedentary behaviour and cognitive function in SLE. Twenty four individuals with SLE and 12 healthy controls will attend The Institute of Sport at Manchester Metropolitan University, where they will undergo a comprehensive assessment of cognitive function, brain structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans, and will perform physical testing and assess their physical activity levels using accelerometry. Participants with SLE will be grouped by the presence/absence of cognitive dysfunction and be compared with healthy controls.
REC name
South Central - Oxford A Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/SC/0356
Date of REC Opinion
31 Oct 2024
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion