Investigation of the Effects of Oxidized Antigens on the T-Cell Response and the Epigenetic Reprogramming of Neutrophils in Lung Diseases - OXIGENE -
The OXIGENE study is trying to understand how our body's defence system, called the immune system, behaves in people with lung illnesses like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and even viral infections including COVID-19. Researchers will examine a single blood sample to see how special immune cells called neutrophils and T-cells respond during illness. They want to find out if these cells develop lasting changes that affect how strongly our body fights disease. While participants won't get direct medical help from taking part, the information gathered could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat lung conditions for others in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The OXIGENE study is a research project designed to help us better understand how our immune system, which is our body's natural defence against illness, works when someone has a lung condition. This includes common problems like asthma and COPD, as well as infections like bacterial or viral pneumonia, and tuberculosis.
Researchers are focusing on two particular types of immune cells: neutrophils and T-cells. Neutrophils are like the first responders that rush to an infection or injury. T-cells are more like specialist soldiers that remember past infections and fight future ones. The study wants to see if these cells change their behaviour in people with lung diseases and if these changes are different depending on the specific illness or individual person. For example, in people with tuberculosis, they are also looking at whether changes to bits of the bacteria caused by inflammation affect how T-cells react.
By carefully studying these cells from a single blood sample, the OXIGENE study hopes to create new knowledge. This information could eventually help doctors develop more accurate tests to diagnose lung diseases earlier and create more effective, targeted treatments for patients in the future.
Key takeaways
- A research study looking at the immune system in lung diseases.
- Specifically focuses on immune cells called neutrophils and T-cells.
- Requires only one blood sample from participants.
- Aims to improve future diagnosis and treatment for lung conditions.
- No direct medical benefit or new treatments for participants.
- Participation involves minimal risks, similar to a standard blood test.
Who may be eligible?
The OXIGENE study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You might be able to take part if you have a lung condition, such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia (either bacterial or viral, including COVID-19 or flu), or tuberculosis.
You need to be well enough to have a blood test, and you must be able to understand the study information and agree to take part. Your doctor will help decide if it's suitable for you.
However, you won't be able to join if you have certain health issues that might affect the results. This includes if you currently have cancer or are receiving cancer treatment, or if you're taking medicines that weaken your immune system. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also not able to take part, and neither are people who have difficulty giving their consent or having blood taken.
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.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with a lung condition like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, or tuberculosis?
- Are you generally well enough to have a blood test?
- Are you able to understand the study information and agree to take part?
- Are you currently not receiving cancer treatment or taking medicines that suppress your immune system?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the OXIGENE study, it's quite simple. You'll have one visit where a small amount of blood (about 50ml, which is similar to what's taken for routine tests) will be drawn from your arm. No further visits to the clinic are needed, and you won't be given any medications or special treatments as part of the study. There's no follow-up required after your blood sample is taken. The total time commitment for you would just be for that single blood draw.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Medical Service Center MVZ, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung CenterVerified postcodeBorstel, Germany
- Department of Pulmonology, University Hospital Schleswig-HolsteinVerified postcodeKiel, Germany
Common questions
What is the main goal of the OXIGENE study?
The study aims to understand how the immune system works differently in people with various lung diseases, to help doctors find better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions in the future.
What will I have to do if I take part?
You will only need to provide a single blood sample, similar to a routine blood test. There are no other visits, medications, or treatments involved.
Will I get any medicine or treatment as part of this study?
No, this is an observational study. You will not receive any new medicines or treatments; you'll only provide a blood sample.
Will I get any results about my own health?
The study is for research purposes, so you won't receive individual results about your health. The information gathered helps to understand the general patterns of lung diseases.
Can I stop being part of the study once I've joined?
Yes, you can choose to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Tobias Dallenga, Dr. rer. nat.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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