The Role of Glycoprotein Polymorphisms in Cytomegalovirus disease
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Role of Glycoprotein Polymorphisms in Cytomegalovirus Disease
IRAS ID
364375
Contact name
Pamela Vallely
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This research aims to investigate how genetic variation (polymorphisms) in the glycoproteins found on the surface human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) may influence disease severity. HCMV is a common virus that can cause serious illness in newborn babies (congenital infection), transplant patients, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Understanding why some infections lead to severe outcomes while others remain mild is important for improving diagnosis and treatment.
The study will analyse unlinked, anonymised, surplus residual clinical samples that were originally collected for routine diagnostic purposes. No new samples will be taken from patients. The genetic sequence of viral surface glycoprotein genes will be studied to determine the genetic differences between strains of HCMV isolated from groups of patients with HCMV disease to determine whether particular patterns are associated with severe disease, such as hearing loss in babies or life-threatening complications in transplant recipients.
This research does not involve any direct contact with patients and poses no risk to individuals. All samples and data will be anonymised before use, and only limited, non-identifiable clinical information (such as sample type and age group) will be available to the research team.
The findings may help to identify molecular biomarkers that can predict disease severity in different clinical settings. Leading in turn to improve management of the diseases associated with HCMV infection.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/YH/0032
Date of REC Opinion
17 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion