Lectin expression in Cystic Fibrosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Contribution of Lectin Receptors to the pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) in the context of Cystic Fibrosis
IRAS ID
190057
Contact name
Luisa Martinez-Pomares
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Nottingham
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 9 months, 2 days
Research summary
Lectin receptors are receptors present in immune cells that bind sugars. Some of these lectin receptors, like DC-SIGN and mannose receptor, do not directly activate the immune system. In particular DC-SIGN has been shown to act as an inhibitor of immunity. It is plausible to expect that by engaging DC-SIGN, bacteria can promote ineffective immune responses that result in persistent chronic bacterial infections and inflammation that damage the host. An scenario observed in persons with Cystic Fibrosis; particularly those infected with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). Infection with PA is especially troublesome in Cystic Fibrosis where it is a major determinant of the irreversible loss of lung function and mortality.
• We have found that PA produce sugars that can bind to DC-SIGN and mannose receptor. Based on these results we suggest that by binding DC-SIGN and mannose receptor, PA makes the immune response less effective in clearing this bacteria.
• In this study we aim to:
o (1) Compare the expression of lectin receptors, such as DC-SIGN and mannose receptor, in immune cells of persons with Cystic Fibrosis and control individuals. This will help us to establish if these receptors could indeed contribute to the recognition of PA infection by the immune system and if they are differentially regulated in persons with Cystic Fibrosis compared to non-Cystic Fibrosis donors.o (2) We will also determine potential links between levels of expression of lectin receptors and clinical characteristics in persons with Cystic Fibrosis which could provide a novel tool to gauge disease progression.
REC name
London - Dulwich Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/1117
Date of REC Opinion
21 Jul 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion