Lock and Key
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Host-pathogen interactions in meningococcal disease: Finding the key that fits the lock
IRAS ID
201719
Contact name
Shamez Ladhani
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Public Health England
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NCT02727465, NCT number
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
At any time, around 10% of people carry meningococcal bacteria in the nose and throat, which can cause meningitis, blood poisoning and other serious illnesses. Most people carry these bacteria and never become ill, yet a very small proportion go on to develop these illnesses which can result in life long disabilities or death. The mechanism by which this happens is poorly understood and has been studied in various ways, usually focussing on the bacteria or on the individual, but none has given a definitive answer. This study will be the first of its kind and will assess the interaction between the host and the bacteria at the genetic level, through genetic mapping, helping us to understand what makes some people susceptible to this infection.
The study will have minimal impact on individuals as we hope to use residual samples from those collected whilst they were in hospital or convalescing, though we will have the mechanism for collection of a new sample in the few cases where no residual is available. The study will include all cases recorded within a five year period regardless of age, and whether or not they survived. This is essential in gaining a breadth of information. The study will not affect the care pathway, which is explained in the information leaflet, but could contribute to the development of new treatments and vaccines, which it is anticipated would be of interest to anyone who has experienced this infection as those being invited to participate will either personally have done, or as the family of a case.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0848
Date of REC Opinion
27 Apr 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion