miRNAs as biomarkers in COPD Version 1/2019
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The identification of novel miRNA biomarkers and treatment targets in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease through the use of next-generation sequencing analysis of saliva and lung organoids
IRAS ID
271398
Contact name
Elizabeth Sapey
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
COPD is a common smoking related condition which is progressive resulting in breathlessness and debilitation.
COPD is diagnosed using breathing tests, but it is difficult to identify patients early. Therefore, most people are diagnosed with moderate-severe disease with significant symptoms. To improve outcomes for patients with COPD we need to develop ways of detecting disease early and to identify new treatments.
Previous work has shown that levels of a type of genetic material (miRNAs) are different between people with and without COPD. MiRNAs can be detected in saliva and have been used as indicators (biomarkers) of other diseases. This work will identify which miRNAs are altered in the saliva of patients with COPD. This could provide a quick and non-invasive way of detecting COPD. In addition, this work will also investigate whether we can treat cellular changes seen in COPD by correcting miRNA levels using lung organoids (complex clusters of lung cells that form miniature lung structures in a dish).
The study is being conducted at University Hospitals Birmingham. We aim to recruit 200 patients. Written informed consent will be obtained before enrolment. The consent form (containing a patient information leaflet) will explain that data will be stored on a computer database, maintaining confidentiality in accordance with national data legislation. Patients will be notified that they may discontinue the study at any time and they will be given the opportunity to ask questions and allowed time to consider the information provided. The data stored would include NHS number, date of birth, sex, date of death if it occurs, address, contact details (telephone number, mobile and email with option for preferred method of contact), ethnicity, race and consent, details of registered GP Practice, detailed medical history and examination, quality of life questionnaires, results of routine breathing tests, blood tests and scans.REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/EE/0127
Date of REC Opinion
8 Jul 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion