Viral Infection of HSPC Impacts Hematopoiesis
This research is exploring how viruses like HIV and SARS-CoV-2 (that causes COVID-19) might affect special cells in our bone marrow called 'hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells' (HSPC). These cells are very important because they produce all our different blood cells, including those that fight infection. We want to understand if these viruses can infect long-lasting HSPC, and if so, whether these infected cells could then continuously produce the virus, potentially weakening our immune system or affecting our blood in other ways. Understanding this could help us find better ways to treat or prevent these long-term problems.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about understanding how certain viruses, specifically HIV and the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), might affect our immune system at a very basic level. Our immune system relies on special cells that are made in the bone marrow. These are called 'hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells' (HSPC) and they are like the 'parent' cells that can develop into all the different types of blood cells we need, including those that fight off infections.
Sometimes, a viral infection can weaken the immune system. This means the body struggles to fight off infections, which can be very serious. This is often seen in people with long-term HIV infection, and doctors have also noticed it in some people recovering from COVID-19. We don't fully understand why this happens, or why it can sometimes last a long time, often even after the main infection seems to have cleared.
Our research wants to find out if HIV and SARS-CoV-2 can directly infect these important HSPC cells in the bone marrow. If they can, it's possible that these infected 'parent' cells could keep producing more virus for a long time. This could then lead to a long-lasting weakening of the immune system. We're also looking into whether these infected cells might change the environment in the bone marrow, potentially harming the production of other immune cells. By understanding these processes better, we hope to open doors to new ways to treat people who experience long-term immune problems after viral infections.
Key takeaways
- This study explores how HIV and COVID-19 viruses might affect bone marrow cells.
- It aims to understand if these viruses can create a long-term source of infection.
- The research uses existing bone marrow samples, so no new tests are needed.
- Participation could help improve understanding of long-term immune problems.
- The study focuses on patients treated at Ambroise Paré Hospital.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for two main groups of people. First, we need people living with HIV. This includes individuals who have a low or undetectable amount of virus in their blood. All participants in this group must be patients regularly seen at Ambroise Paré Hospital and have had a bone marrow biopsy or a similar procedure called a myelogram as part of their routine medical care.
Secondly, we are also looking for healthy individuals who do not have HIV. These participants must also be patients at Ambroise Paré Hospital. For this group, we are specifically looking for people who have had a bone marrow biopsy or myelogram done because their doctors were checking for a possible blood problem, even if no serious condition was found.
Unfortunately, if you don't fit into these groups, or if you are under 18 years old, you won't be able to take part in this particular study.
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?
- Are you a patient at Ambroise Paré Hospital?
- If you have HIV, have you had a bone marrow biopsy or myelogram there?
- If you don't have HIV, have you had a bone marrow biopsy or myelogram there to check for a blood issue?
What does participation involve?
This study is an observational study, which means you won't be given any new treatments or medications. Your participation will involve allowing the research team to use samples that were already taken during a bone marrow biopsy or myelogram that you had as part of your normal medical care. There are no additional visits or procedures required specifically for this research. The study will analyse these samples to understand the impact of viruses. There is no follow-up period as new samples won't be taken. Your involvement would be one-off, based on existing samples.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hematology and interne medicine department, Ambroise Paré hospital - APHPVerified postcodeBoulogne-Billancourt, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What are HSPC cells?
HSPC stands for hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. These are special 'parent' cells in your bone marrow that produce all the different blood cells your body needs, including those that fight infections.
Why is this study looking at HIV and SARS-CoV-2?
Both HIV and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19) can sometimes weaken the immune system for a long time. This study wants to see if they do this by affecting the HSPC cells in your bone marrow.
Will I get any new treatment in this study?
No, this study does not involve any new treatments or medications. It's an observational study that uses samples already collected during your routine medical care.
Do I need to do anything extra if I join?
No, you don't need to do anything extra. The study will use samples from a bone marrow biopsy or myelogram you've already had.
Will my regular doctor know I'm in the study?
Your medical team at Ambroise Paré Hospital will be aware, as the study involves using samples collected during your care there.
How to find out more
Claude CAPRON, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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