Dynamic hormone diagnostics (ULTRADIAN)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Dynamic hormone diagnostics (ULTRADIAN)
IRAS ID
181429
Contact name
Stafford Lightman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
8 years, 6 months, 31 days
Research summary
Hormones are released from organs under a specific rhythm creating a typical hormonal pattern. That rhythmicity may be either longer than 24 hours, shorter or appear in hourly intervals. This rhythm is essential for maintenance of proper body function, composition and reaction to different stimuli. Disordered rhythmicity of hormones is seen in several diseases, consequently treatment of endocrine diseases should respect hormonal rhythms. \nUnfortunately, current diagnostic protocols rely on a single blood test being taken mostly in the morning and treatment modalities fail to respect these rhythms, together this can lead to misinterpretation of results, delay in diagnosis and repetitive admission of patient to the hospital. Moreover, unphysiological treatment increases number of long term complications and shortens life expectancy.\nWe would like to introduce a new tool that in the future could be used for the diagnosis and monitoring of endocrine disorders. That tool- ULTRADIAN consist of a pump and collector which has been already successfully used in human research. The microdialysis technique enables us to measure hormones for 24 hours in tissues that surrounds cells. It is much comfortable for the patients, portable and can be performed at home. \nIn the first stage we will determine normal curves/patterns of hormones in healthy volunteers and then compare these patterns to patients with endocrine disorders. This study is proof of concept that 24 hour hormonal survey will detect meaningful differences/changes in hormonal patterns of secretion which in the future could be utilised to allow earlier diagnosis and serve as a tool for monitoring and individualizing treatment. \n\n\n\n
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/SW/0069
Date of REC Opinion
9 May 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion