Role of T Lymphocytes in Hypersensitivity Reactions to Asparaginase in Patients Treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
Doctors often treat a type of childhood blood cancer, called Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), with a drug named asparaginase. This drug is very good at fighting cancer cells. However, some children can have severe allergic reactions to it. This study aims to understand why these reactions happen. Researchers will take blood samples from children receiving this medicine and gently expose their immune cells, especially a type called T lymphocytes, to asparaginase in the lab. By watching how these cells react, they hope to discover clues about who might experience a severe reaction. The main goal is to develop a simple test that can predict which children are at risk, so doctors can plan safer, more personalised treatment for them.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is a type of blood cancer that mostly affects children. The good news is that treatments for ALL are now very effective, helping many children get better. One of the really important medicines used in this treatment is called asparaginase. This drug works by removing a substance that cancer cells need to survive, which helps to kill them off.
However, some patients can have unwanted side effects from asparaginase, including serious allergic reactions. We don't fully understand why some people react badly while others don't. It might be due to their genes or how their immune system works.
This research project wants to understand why some children struggle with asparaginase. To do this, we will collect blood samples from children who are being treated for ALL. In the lab, we will then expose their blood cells, especially special immune cells called T lymphocytes, to the drug. By carefully watching how these cells react, we hope to find out if certain immune reactions are linked to the allergic responses seen in patients. Ultimately, our aim is to create a simple test that can predict which children might have a bad reaction to asparaginase. This would allow doctors to choose a different or modified treatment plan for these children, making their care safer and more personalised.
Key takeaways
- Studies childhood blood cancer (ALL) and reactions to a key drug, asparaginase.
- Aims to understand why some children have severe allergic reactions.
- No change to your child's current treatment.
- Involves a blood sample taken during treatment.
- Goal is to develop a test to predict reactions for safer future treatments.
- Participation helps future patients with ALL.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for children who have a confirmed diagnosis of B- or T-lineage Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). They should be receiving treatment that includes the drug asparaginase (either PEG-asparaginase or native E. coli asparaginase) and be at least 1 year old.
Children will be invited to participate before they start the 'consolidation phase' of their treatment, meaning sampling will happen between the initial 'induction' phase and 'consolidation'.
Children cannot take part if they have already had a special procedure called a stem cell transplant, or if they have Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), as this condition can affect their immune system and how they react to medicines. Also, if there's an emergency or situation where it's not possible to properly explain the study and get permission, they won't be able to join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Does your child have a confirmed diagnosis of ALL?
- Is your child currently receiving asparaginase as part of their treatment?
- Is your child at least 1 year old?
- Has your child not had a stem cell transplant?
- Does your child not have Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)?
What does participation involve?
This study doesn't involve any changes to your child's regular medical treatment. It's focused on understanding how their body reacts to medicine. If your child joins, the study will involve collecting a small blood sample at a specific point in their ALL treatment, typically between the initial 'induction' phase and the 'consolidation' phase. This blood sample will then be used in the laboratory to see how their immune cells react to asparaginase. There are no extra visits or follow-up appointments directly related to this study, beyond their standard medical care. The total duration of your child's involvement would be limited to the time of the blood sample collection.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- CHU de NiceVerified postcodeNice, France
- APHMVerified postcodeMarseille, France
Common questions
What is ALL?
ALL stands for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, which is a type of blood cancer most often found in children.
What is asparaginase?
Asparaginase is a medicine commonly used to treat ALL. It works by removing a substance that cancer cells need to grow.
Why are you doing this study?
We want to understand why some patients have allergic reactions to asparaginase, so we can eventually find a way to predict and prevent these reactions.
Will my child's treatment change if we join?
No, your child's treatment will not change. This study is about understanding how the drug affects immune cells in the lab, not about changing care.
What is a T lymphocyte?
T lymphocytes are a type of immune cell, sometimes called T cells. They are part of your body's defence system that can react to medicines or infections.
How to find out more
PIERRE-SIMON ROHRLICH, Professor
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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