Uncovering the link between RSV infection and childhood asthma
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Utilising the air-liquid interface model to understand the association between respiratory syncytial virus infection and lung remodelling in the development of childhood asthma.
IRAS ID
343535
Contact name
Lindsay Broadbent
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The determinants of childhood asthma are largely unknown. Risk factors include genetic predisposition and respiratory viral infection at an early age. This study aims to uncover the role of a common respiratory virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in the development of airway remodelling, a hallmark of chronic lung disease, including asthma.
Airway cells from participants will be grown into 'mini-lung' cultures that can be used to investigate the response to RSV infection. These cultures are much more representative of the human lung than traditional research models.
Identification of genetic or inflammatory biomarkers of childhood asthma development will allow for the targeted administration of RSV preventatives such as palivizumab. This study will help to identify key populations that will benefit most from RSV prevention. In addition, this study will answer fundamental questions about airway remodelling that could benefit research into other areas of pulmonary medicine.REC name
London - Brent Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/LO/0555
Date of REC Opinion
20 Sep 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion