Neutrophils in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measurement of neutrophil migration in the lung in vivo, using autologous radio-labelled neutrophils
IRAS ID
183190
Contact name
Charlotte Summers
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University of Cambridge
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 11 months, 28 days
Research summary
The aim of this study is to track the movement and behaviour of neutrophils (white blood cells) in the lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This is a lung disease that causes scarring of the lungs. These scars can harbour bacteria that can cause infection. A persistant infection will lead to activation of the immune system and attracts neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) to areas of infection and inflammation. When activated these neutrophils can cause chronic lung damage. This study will help to understand whether neutrophils are present in greater numbers than normal in areas of lung scarring. By scanning patients with known progressive IPF we can gain an understanding of the movement and kinetics of neutrophils in this disease.
To do this neutrophils from patients with IPF will be separated from a blood sample and a small amount of a radioactive marker called technetium will be attached to the white blood cells, these will then be re-injected back in to the patient through a cannula in their arm. We will then take blood samples and use sensitive scanners to track the movement of these labelled cells through the lungs, liver and spleen.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/EE/0045
Date of REC Opinion
10 May 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion