Study summary
We are trying to understand how our body’s natural protective immune functions (B cells) are affected by stroke, why this happens and how this could be improved. This may help us to prevent or reduce the risk of stroke-associated infection and improve health for people who have had a stroke.
B cells are important immune cells in our bodies that produce antibodies to help find and kill bacteria when we have an infection. If the number of B cells in our body is too low or they do not work properly, this often leads to a much greater risk of infection. Certain types of B cells are part of our natural immune system and are very important for protecting us from bacterial infections that commonly affect people after stroke. Our recent research suggests that stroke can cause a huge loss of some types of B cells.
Who can take part?
You can take part if –
you have not had a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA),
you have not had any infections in the past 3 months or taken antibiotics.
you are over 18 years of age
What will the research involve?
You will meet with a member of the research team, be required to donate a single blood sample. You will also be asked to provide details of current medications and risk factors but no personal identifiable information will be recorded and the appointment will last about 20-30 minutes
Where will the research take place?
Barnes Clinical Research Facility, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust. Transport can be arranged where necessary and reasonable travel costs will be reimbursed
Study References
Ethics approved references for this study are listed below
- Research Ethics Committee reference 18/NW/0415
For further information, please contact the study team
Email sharon.hulme@manchester.ac.uk