Understanding retroperitoneal fibrosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding retroperitoneal fibrosis
IRAS ID
371641
Contact name
Alice R Lapthorn
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Anglia Ruskin University
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a condition characterized by the growth of dense, scar tissue in the back of the abdomen. It often encases the ureter which can lead to kidney dysfunction, back pain, or swelling. Treatment typically includes steroids, immunosuppressants, or surgery. The tissue samples will be utilised to obtain cells, proteins and other cellular components which will be used to test chemical and biological compounds in the laboratory to help us identify new medicines for preventing retroperitoneal fibrosis.
We have been working on different fibrotic disorders in collaboration with several NHS Trusts across the UK, for over a decade. During this time, we have furthered our understanding of how fibrosis develops and how we can discover new medicines to prevent it. We also hold scientific collaborations with other academic research institutes and
pharmaceutical companies to turn these discoveries into medicines. These collaborations may necessitate sharing
tissue and cell samples obtained from the patients.Tissue samples will be collected from patients being treated at the Guy's Hospital, London. Patients will be
asked to give fully informed consent before their surgery is due to take place. Tissue samples will be collected from
patients undergoing surgery for retroperitoneal fibrosis. The specimens will be totally anonymised. There will no additional intervention or change to the surgical procedure/patient care.We are also seeking approval to share this material with other academic research institutes or pharmaceutical companies who will be supporting us towards developing new medicines for preventing retroperitoneal fibrosis.
REC name
London - West London & GTAC Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/PR/0666
Date of REC Opinion
24 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion