GITAP V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Platform genetic and immune strategy to treat and prevent SARS-COV-2 infection in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases with increased risk of COVID-19 that may also inhibit the diseases
IRAS ID
304149
Contact name
Thomas Lehner
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has brought unprecedented stress and suffering to patients and health care systems across the globe, with over 4 million deaths worldwide. Some groups are more likely to catch COVID-19 than others, experience more severe symptoms, and have higher rates of hospitalization as a result. These include older people (especially those living in nursing homes), those with neurodegenerative illnesses, and those with severe mental illnesses.
Based on studies on blood cells, we have identified two possible treatments for COVID-19, one is an antibiotic, and the other is a protein. These work by improving immunity. In this study, we will take blood samples from people with mental illness (bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizophrenia) and neurodegenerative illness (Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease). We will then apply the two potential treatments to blood and saliva cells to study the cell responses in these vulnerable populations, to see which is more effective. We will also collect blood from healthy control participants using the Infectious Disease Biobank (KCL), and compare cell responses in healthy versus the affected populations.
Participation will involve a screening video call or appointment, and providing a blood and saliva sample (with optional dental examination). For participants who wish to have the optional dental examination, participation will take place at Guy's Hospital, London, whereas for those who do not consent to the dental examination, participation will take place at the Maudsley Hospital, London.REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/PR/1519
Date of REC Opinion
25 Mar 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Unfavourable Opinion