T and B lymphocytes in premature infants, cortisol and illness
Research type
Research Study
Full title
T and B lymphocyte development in premature infants and the impact of cortisol and inter-current disease
IRAS ID
172227
Contact name
Anthony JB Emmerson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Newborn babies, especially those born prematurely, are highly susceptible to infections. Understanding the normal development of these infants immune system has until now been sketchy because of difficulty obtaining adequate amounts of blood from infants who may only weigh 500g. The development of micro-analytical technology provides the opportunity for study the immune systems and thus a better understanding of factors that lead some to develop serious infections and immune complications.
This study will use PCR and liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy techniques to measure the number of specific types of white blood cells involved in immunity to bacteria (B-lymphocytes - KRECs) and viruses (T-lymphocytes - TRECs), as well as levels of the hormone cortisol. Using this technology, measurements can be made using a third of one drop of blood. The study will combine the expertise of colleagues at Great Ormond St Hospital in London where TREC/KREC assays have already been set up and tested, and the Biochemistry Department at Wythenshawe Hospital where the test for cortisol is available. Key to the project's success is the tertiary neonatal unit at St Mary's Hospital, with 8,000 deliveries each year, where the Dr Emmerson and his research coordinator work. Dr Arkwright provides expertise in children's immunity in health and disease and will advise on the design and Dr Roberts from the department of statistics will help with the analysis of the study.
The aims are to define the normal development of lymphocytes in premature neonates and the effects of stress hormones and disease on this process. This information may provide explanations as to why some infants are more susceptible to infections than others. It will also provide normal data which can then be correlated with that from children with serious immune problems for which TREC technology will soon be used as a national screening tool.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0204
Date of REC Opinion
19 Mar 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion