A Smart COPD-SPOC monitor for interactive management of COPD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Smart Saliva-based Point-Of-Care biosensor for interactive management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: COPD-SPOC monitor
IRAS ID
184863
Contact name
Monica Spiteri
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the 2nd leading cause of chronic disability and the 4th leading cause of death worldwide. Patients have frequent exacerbations, which severely impair their lung function and quality of life, leading to inability to work, unscheduled GP visits and hospital admissions. Early diagnosis and treatment of exacerbations can reduce their severity and limit lung damage, yet often treatment is delayed because early ‘worsening of symptoms’ goes unrecognised. The need exists for a simple portable monitor that allows patients to assess their condition at home and help them spot exacerbations early.
To address this need, our team has developed a sensitive analyser which
measures 3 substances called ‘biomarkers’ (C-reactive protein; procalcitonin; neutrophil elastase) in saliva. We have demonstrated that levels of these biomarkers vary depending on the severity of COPD inflammation/development of infection, and give early warning of exacerbation onset. Patients have supported our solution and prefer having saliva tests to blood. This project will now improve efficiency of all 3 biomarker tests using a single small saliva sample (much less than half a teaspoon). As ‘experts by experience’, patients will be actively involved with the research team throughout the design, development and testing stages of the monitor. Clinical usefulness of this monitor also depends on receiving regular information on ‘how the patient feels’. Prompted by ideas from our patient focus group, a specific App will be produced to combine the biomarker results with simple health scores recorded by patients using an electronic wellbeing diary. The App will include interactive facilities for patients to communicate with their clinician and to improve their engagement with self-care and use of the monitor.During the project, manufactured 'dummy' models of the COPD-SPOC monitor will be evaluated by COPD patients and healthcare professionals to provide feedback on any necessary practical and user-friendly refinements.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0638
Date of REC Opinion
1 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion