Genetic Susceptibility to Listeriosis
This study is investigating listeriosis, a rare but serious food poisoning. While it usually affects older people or those with existing health problems, a small number of younger, otherwise healthy individuals get very sick. Researchers want to find out if there's a genetic reason why some people are more vulnerable to this infection, or why they might develop more severe forms, like brain infections or complications during pregnancy. By understanding these genetic links, the study hopes to improve how listeriosis is treated and prevented in the future. It involves looking at samples from people who have had listeriosis and, in some cases, their family members.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Listeriosis is a type of food poisoning caused by bacteria. It's not very common, but it can be quite serious. Most often, it affects older people, individuals with health conditions that weaken their immune system, and pregnant women. However, doctors have noticed that some younger people, under 40 and without obvious health problems, also get very ill with listeriosis, sometimes affecting their brain (neurolisteriosis).
This study, called MONALISA, has been looking at listeriosis cases since 2009. The researchers are particularly interested in why these younger, healthy individuals get so sick. They think there might be something in their genes that makes them more likely to catch listeriosis or to have a more severe reaction to it. This genetic link could also explain why some people develop brain infections or serious complications during pregnancy from listeriosis, while others don't.
The main goal of this research is to pinpoint these genetic factors. By understanding who might be more vulnerable due to their genes, doctors hope to develop better ways to treat listeriosis and even prevent it in those at highest risk. This could lead to more personalised care and better outcomes for patients in the future.
Key takeaways
- Listeriosis is a rare but serious food poisoning.
- This study aims to find genetic reasons for severe listeriosis.
- It focuses on younger people who get very sick without obvious causes.
- Understanding genetics could lead to better future treatments and prevention.
- Participation involves providing a biological sample, typically blood.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you have been diagnosed with listeriosis. This includes if you had a very serious form of the illness, an unusual type, or if you were under 40 years old with no other known health conditions when you got sick. You'll also need to be part of the UK social security system and be able to give your informed consent to participate.
In some cases, if a genetic link is found in a patient with listeriosis, certain family members might also be asked to take part. This includes parents, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and nieces. Like the patients, these family volunteers would also need to be covered by the social security system and be able to give their informed consent.
However, if a family member isn't able to understand and agree to take part in the study, they would not be eligible.
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.
- Have I been diagnosed with listeriosis?
- Was my listeriosis severe, unusual, or did I get it before age 40 without other health issues?
- Am I covered by the UK social security system?
- (If a family member is asked) Am I a close relative of someone who had listeriosis?
- Am I able to understand information and agree to take part?
- Do I have any conditions that would prevent me from giving consent?
What does participation involve?
This study focuses on collecting human biological samples. If you meet the criteria and agree to take part, you would likely provide a blood sample or other biological samples. The study does not involve taking any new medication or undergoing specific treatments as part of the research. Once your sample is collected, there won't be any further visits or assessments required from you for this particular study. The main involvement is a one-time process of sample collection and providing consent. The researchers will then analyze these samples as part of their ongoing efforts to understand listeriosis.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre Médical de l'Institut PasteurVerified postcodeParis, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is listeriosis?
Listeriosis is a serious type of food poisoning caused by bacteria, which can be particularly dangerous for older people, those with weaker immune systems, and pregnant women.
Why are you looking at genetics?
Researchers believe that certain genes might make some people more susceptible to listeriosis or lead to more severe illness, even if they are otherwise healthy.
Will this study help me directly?
While this study won't change your current treatment, the information learned could help doctors improve how listeriosis is treated and prevented for others in the future.
What kind of samples are needed?
The study will collect human biological samples, most likely a blood sample, to look for genetic information.
Who is funding this research?
The information provided does not specify the funding body, but such studies are typically funded by medical research councils or charitable organisations.
How to find out more
Marc Lecuit
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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