RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Immunomonitoring of Mold Invasive Infections

This study focuses on severe mould infections, such as aspergillosis, which can be very serious despite current treatments. Researchers are monitoring the immune system of patients with these infections to see why some struggle to fight them off. They are particularly interested in how certain immune 'switches' (called checkpoints) on immune cells work. The hope is to identify patients who might benefit from a new type of treatment called immunotherapy, which helps reset and strengthen the body's own immune response. By understanding when and for whom this kind of treatment could be most effective, the study aims to improve care for people with these difficult-to-treat infections.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris

Enrolment target

Start

28 Jul 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2027

Invasive Fungal Disease Mold Invasive Fungal Infection: Aspergillus, Mucorales, Fusarium, Scedosporium

What is this study about?

When people get very serious mould infections, unfortunately, they don't always get better, even with the best medicines. This study is trying to understand why this happens and what we can do about it. The main idea is that our body's fighters, called immune cells, sometimes get really tired or 'exhausted' when trying to fight off a stubborn infection.

Imagine your immune cells are like soldiers. If the battle goes on for too long, they might get worn out and not fight as well. Scientists have found certain 'switches' on these immune cells that can make them tired. In some cancers, blocking these switches has been very successful in making the immune cells fight harder. Now, researchers are wondering if the same approach could help people with severe mould infections.

So, this study will carefully watch how the immune system behaves in people with these infections. They'll be looking for signs of these 'tired' immune cells and trying to figure out if boosting them with special treatments could lead to better outcomes. The goal is to learn when and for whom these new immune-boosting treatments might work best, helping doctors give more targeted and effective care.

Key takeaways

This study focuses on severe mould infections.
It aims to understand how the body's immune system responds.
Researchers are exploring new ways to boost the immune response.
The study involves monitoring your immune system through blood samples.
The goal is to improve treatments for future patients with these infections.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have been diagnosed with a serious mould infection, such as aspergillosis. This diagnosis must meet specific medical standards.

You might also be eligible if you've recently been diagnosed (within the last 14 days) or if your current treatment for the infection isn't working as well as expected, leading your doctor to consider changing your treatment. You also need to have a certain level of white blood cells (immune cells) in your blood, and you cannot have had another type of immune-boosting treatment called anti-PD1 antibodies before.

Finally, you need to be a UK resident and agree to take part in the research. If you've had a bacterial infection recently, you won't be able to join 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?
Have you been diagnosed with a serious mould infection like aspergillosis?
Is your diagnosis recent, or is your current treatment not fully working?
Do you have a healthy enough level of white blood cells?
Have you *not* had previous treatment with anti-PD1 antibodies?
Are you a UK resident and willing to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This study mainly involves monitoring your immune system. This means researchers will take blood samples to look at your immune cells and how they are responding to the infection. These samples will help them track changes over time. The study aims to understand how your body fights the infection and how certain immune switches are behaving. You won't be given any new medications or treatments as part of this specific study. The main focus is on observation and collecting information from your blood samples to help future patients. The total duration of your participation would depend on your course of treatment and follow-up as determined by your medical team.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no direct immediate benefits to you for taking part in this study, as it's primarily observational and won't involve new direct treatments. However, the information gathered will be valuable for improving our understanding of severe mould infections and could help develop better treatments for future patients. While there are generally no significant risks beyond standard blood draws, potential discomfort or bruising can occur. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades
Verified postcode
Paris, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of mould infections are included in this study?

This study includes serious mould infections caused by fungi like Aspergillus, Mucorales, Fusarium, and Scedosporium.

Will I receive new medicine in this study?

No, this study is about observing your immune system and collecting information. You won't be given new medicines as part of your participation in this research.

Why are researchers looking at my immune system?

Researchers are looking at your immune system to understand why some people struggle to fight off these infections. They especially want to see if certain 'switches' on your immune cells are making them less effective.

What does 'immune checkpoint expression' mean?

It means the researchers are checking for certain 'switches' (called checkpoints) on your immune cells (T cells). These switches can sometimes tell your immune cells to rest or slow down, and understanding them could help improve treatment.

How long will I be part of this study?

The study will monitor you as long as needed during your infection and treatment, fitting in with your ongoing medical care. The exact duration will depend on your individual situation.

How to find out more

Alexandra SERRIS, MD, PhD

alexandra.serris@aphp.fr 06 68 80 24 92 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.