Experimental Human Pneumococcal Carriage: Aging and immunity
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Experimental Human Pneumococcal Carriage Model (Programme Grant) Research: working towards a nasal vaccine for pneumonia The effect of age on immune function
IRAS ID
196461
Contact name
Jamie Rylance
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 29 days
Research summary
Why? Pneumococcus bacteria can cause severe infection such as pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis particularly in those with lower immunity, such as the very young and the very old (especially if other chronic illnesses are present). Vaccines protect against a few of the many sub-types of the pneumococcal bacteria. In addition, this bacteria is commonly present in the nose of healthy adults without any sign of illness (carriage), which may help develop a natural immunity to the infection. Carriage is rarely detected in older people.
How? To develop new vaccines we have established an Experimental Pneumococcal Carriage Model (EHPC) that allows healthy volunteers to carry these bacteria in their nose safely. Over 400 healthy volunteers have taken part in EHPC.
What? This study aims to find out if EHPC is possible in older people and to measure their immune response to EHPC.
Who? We will recruit healthy adults aged over 50 years, starting with people aged 50-64, then 65-74, and finally 75-85, thus ensuring participants’ safety by starting with the lowest-risk group.
Where? The study will be conducted at the clinical research facility in Royal Liverpool University Hospital. Healthy volunteers will be recruited from advertising in local media and in public places.
How? Part one will take 4-5 weeks. A few drops of the live bacteria are put into the nose then we collect secretions from the nose and take blood samples. Those who carry the bacteria will be invited to repeat this after 3- 6 months to see if they have developed natural immunity. We ask participants to report any early signs of infection, we provide a thermometer and antibiotics to identify and treat infection early. The research team are available any time day or night and will provide access to healthcare.REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0031
Date of REC Opinion
4 Feb 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion