Dissecting Immunological and Autoimmune Mechanisms of Neuropsychiatric Diseases
This research aims to understand how our body's defence system, called the immune system, might play a part in certain brain-related symptoms. These symptoms, which doctors call 'neuropsychiatric symptoms', can include things like changes in memory, mood, or thinking. The study wants to find 'biomarkers' – tiny clues in our blood – that could help doctors diagnose these conditions more accurately, predict how they might progress, and lead to new treatments, especially when the immune system is involved. People aged 16 to 100 with these symptoms, and those without, are invited to take part by providing blood samples and sharing some health information.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine your body's immune system as its own personal army, designed to fight off infections and diseases. Sometimes, this army can get a bit confused and start attacking healthy parts of the body, which can lead to various health problems. This study is trying to understand if a confused immune system might be involved in conditions that affect the brain and how we think, feel, and behave. These are often called 'neuropsychiatric symptoms', and they can show up in different ways, such as changes in mood, memory, or concentration.
Researchers want to carefully look at blood samples from people who have these symptoms, and also from people who don't, to see if there are any specific clues or 'biomarkers' related to the immune system. Finding these clues could be really important because it might help doctors understand who is more likely to develop certain conditions, diagnose them more accurately, and hopefully develop new and more effective treatments in the future. The study is also looking at how these immune system changes might be linked to symptoms across a range of different health conditions, including those affecting the nerves, mental health, autoimmune diseases, and infections.
By comparing samples and health information from people with these symptoms and healthy volunteers, the study hopes to shed light on the complex connection between our immune system and our brain health. This knowledge is crucial for advancing our understanding and care for many people.
Key takeaways
- This study investigates if your immune system affects brain-related symptoms.
- Researchers hope to find new ways to diagnose and treat these conditions.
- Participants will provide blood samples and health information.
- A lumbar puncture (spinal fluid sample) is optional.
- It's for people aged 16-100, both with and without neuropsychiatric symptoms.
- Participation involves minimal commitment, mostly blood tests and data sharing.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for two main groups of people to take part:
Firstly, they need people aged between 16 and 100 who have experienced brain-related symptoms (neuropsychiatric symptoms) in the last year, and where doctors think their immune system might be playing a role in causing these symptoms. This could include a wide range of conditions where the immune system is suspected to be involved.
Secondly, they need 'control' participants, also aged 16 to 100, who have not experienced these kinds of brain-related symptoms in the last year. This helps researchers compare findings between people with symptoms and those without them. You won't be able to join if there's a risk of harm to yourself or staff, or if you can't have blood tests.
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 between 16 and 100 years old?
- If you have symptoms: have you experienced brain-related symptoms in the last year, and does your doctor suspect your immune system might be involved?
- If you don't have symptoms: have you been free of brain-related symptoms for the last year?
- Are you able to have blood tests safely?
- Is there no medical reason why a lumbar puncture would be unsafe for you (if you choose to have one)?
- Are there no concerns about your behaviour making participation unsafe for you or staff?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to provide a blood sample. This is a standard blood test, similar to what you might have at your GP surgery. You'll also be asked to share some general information about yourself and your health, and give permission for the researchers to look at relevant parts of your medical records.
In some cases, if a suitable sample isn't already available, you might be asked if you're willing to provide a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is fluid from around your brain and spinal cord. This is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture. If you agree to this, extra checks will be done beforehand to make sure it's safe for you.
Some participants might also be asked if they'd be willing to give up to four additional blood samples over the course of a year. The total duration of your involvement could be from a single visit for blood tests and information, up to a year if you agree to provide extra samples. There are no study medications involved.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
- King's College HospitalVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What are 'neuropsychiatric symptoms'?
These are symptoms that affect both your brain and your mental health, such as changes in memory, mood, thinking, behaviour, or concentration. They can be part of many different conditions.
What does 'immune system' mean?
It's your body's natural defence system that protects you from illness and infection. Sometimes it can mistakenly attack healthy parts of your own body.
What is a 'biomarker'?
A biomarker is a measurable indicator in your body, like a substance in your blood, that can tell doctors something about a disease or how your body is responding to a treatment. In this study, they are looking for immune system clues.
Do I have to have a lumbar puncture?
No, providing a sample of spinal fluid (lumbar puncture) is completely optional. If a suitable sample isn't already available, you might be asked if you're willing, but it's your choice.
Will I get results from my tests?
The study collects information for research purposes, so you won't get individual test results from the blood or fluid samples. The aim is to find patterns across many people.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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