Chemokine analysis to define COVID-19 risk groups [COVID-19]
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Analysis of chemokines to define groups at risk of severe COVID-19 disease
IRAS ID
284369
Contact name
Daniel Payne
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 0 months, 90 days
Research summary
Severe coronavirus infection results in both severe pneumonia and tissue damage particularly in ‘at risk’ individuals. This is linked to excessive activation of the immune system, resulting in an elevated inflammatory response mediated by specific immune messengers – cytokines and chemokines, which are known to be increased in elderly patients. Of the latter, the pro-fibrotic chemokine CXCL16 has been shown to be present at high levels in both normal and pathological lung. Its receptor is found on immune cells and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Historical studies in HIV research have also highlighted a CXCR6 polymorphism in certain ethnic populations, associated with more rapid progression to PCP pneumonia and worse overall survival. Data in a recent COVID-19 study has highlighted a potential role for this chemokine and its receptor in patients with more severe infection. \nIn routine diagnostic testing we have observed that certain individuals, particularly elderly and with co-morbidities, have upregulated immune cell expression of activation markers. Over the 6 past weeks we have observed statistically significantly increases (p = <0.0001) in levels of CXCR6 on immune cells in those over 60 years old (n = 85) when compared to those under 60 years old (n = 70). This pro-inflammatory signature is consistent with studies performed by other groups.\nWe are seeking approval to further this study to review anonymised samples from COVID-19 positive patients, to review CXCR6 expression and structure on the surface of immune cells in addition to assessing levels of CXCL16 in plasma. We believe there is sufficient evidence to suggest that these may be involved in recruitment of immune cells to the lung leading to more serious consequences of infection. We have performed an extensive literature search and are not aware of other groups that are looking at these molecules.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/HRA/2615
Date of REC Opinion
20 May 2020
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion