Investigating the Role of ATP Production by Airway Epithelium in Patients With Refractory and Unexplained Chronic Cough (RCC/UCC).
This study is investigating a common and annoying problem: a chronic cough that doesn't respond to usual treatments, or has no clear cause. About 1 in 10 people worldwide experience this. Researchers think a chemical called ATP, found in our airway lining, might play a role in making us cough. They want to see if people with a persistent cough produce more ATP, if this chemical triggers their cough, and whether differences in ATP make-up could help doctors identify who has this type of cough. Finding these answers could lead to new tests and more targeted treatments for people living with a stubborn cough. The study involves looking at cells from the airways to understand these chemical processes better.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine constantly having a cough that just won’t go away, even after trying different medicines. This is what many people with 'refractory' (stubborn) or 'unexplained' chronic cough (RCC/UCC) experience. It's a very common problem, affecting about 10% of people globally, and it can really impact daily life. Doctors believe that in these cases, the nerves in the airways that trigger a cough might be overly sensitive or not working quite right.
This study is trying to understand why this happens. They are focusing on a specific chemical called ATP, which is naturally found in our bodies. ATP is known to play a part in how our nerves communicate and can be involved in the coughing reflex. Researchers want to see if the cells lining the airways of people with a persistent cough produce more of this ATP compared to people who don't have a cough. They also want to understand if this ATP is actually coming from these airway lining cells, and if giving the cells a gentle nudge (like a tiny puff of air or a mild chemical) makes them release more ATP.
By figuring out how ATP works in the airways of people with chronic cough, the study hopes to find a special 'sign' or 'marker' that doctors could one day use. This marker could help them better understand why someone has a persistent cough and, importantly, lead to new and more effective treatments tailored to that individual. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the lives of people living with this frustrating condition.
Key takeaways
- Investigating chronic cough that won't go away.
- Focusing on a chemical called ATP in airway cells.
- Hopes to find new ways to diagnose and treat stubborn coughs.
- Involves a procedure called bronchoscopy to collect cell samples.
- Recruiting people with chronic cough and healthy volunteers.
- Aims to improve life for those with persistent coughs.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would either have a chronic cough that hasn't responded to treatment or has no clear cause, and your cough rating would need to be at least 40mm on a specific scale. You must also have had a normal chest X-ray in the last five years and show no signs of blocked airways in a breathing test.
If you don't have a chronic cough and are generally healthy, you might be able to join as a 'healthy control'. This means you would have no history of ongoing cough, asthma, COPD (a lung disease), or other significant lung conditions like bronchiectasis. You also shouldn't be a current smoker or have a heavy smoking history. For either group, you must be between 18 and 80 years old, and be able to understand and agree to take part.
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.
- Do I have a chronic cough that doctors can't explain or treat?
- Am I between 18 and 80 years old?
- Have I had a normal chest X-ray in the last 5 years?
- Do I have a cough severity rating of 40mm or more (if I have a persistent cough)?
- Am I able to visit the study site for assessments?
- Have I recently had a COVID-19 infection or other chest infections?
What does participation involve?
This study involves a procedure called a bronchoscopy. A tiny, flexible tube with a camera is passed down your windpipe while you are given some gentle medication to make you sleepy and comfortable (sedation). During this, small samples of your airway lining will be collected. The study will also involve breathing tests and questions about your cough. The full duration of your involvement, including any follow-up, will be explained by the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Imran SatiaVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is ATP and why is it important?
ATP is like a tiny energy packet in our cells. Researchers think it might play a role in making us cough, especially in persistent coughs.
What is a bronchoscopy?
It's a procedure where doctors use a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your airways and collect tiny samples, usually done while you're sleepy.
Will I get medication for my cough in this study?
This study is mainly about understanding the causes of cough, not testing a new cough medication. You will continue to receive care as usual for your cough.
How long will I be involved in the study?
The study team will tell you the exact timeline. It typically involves a few visits for tests and the bronchoscopy, plus any follow-up appointments.
Can I still join if I have other health problems?
Some health conditions might mean you can't join to ensure your safety and the study's accuracy. The study team will review your full medical history.
How to find out more
Imran Satia, MB BChir (cantab) MRCP PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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