Researchers at the University of Aberdeen’s Clinical Research Unit are currently looking for volunteers to take part in a trial of a new vaccine, which may help treat asthma.
With asthma affecting an estimated 3.4 million people in the UK, researchers at Aberdeen are currently working on the theory that some people’s condition may be caused by changes in modern society. It is thought that reduced exposure to infections and a more sterile environment, has led to some people’s immune systems over-reacting when exposed to allergens such as house dust. House dust is a common trigger of some forms of asthma and thrives in warm centrally heated houses.
Professor David Price, Head of the Community Clinical Research Unit, from the University said; “The vaccine we are using in this study is a type of bacterium (Mycobacterium Vaccae) found in soil around the world. We are now at an important stage of our research and need to investigate how this changes the way the body’s immune cells react to allergens. We would, therefore, be very pleased to hear from any asthma sufferers aged between 18 and 40 years of age, who are non-smokers and have their condition well controlled with inhalers.”
Anyone interested in taking part in this important trial is invited to contact Professor Price and his team on: (01224) 553961, or email: sam.knowles@abdn.ac.uk
For further information on the new asthma vaccine trial, contact Professor David Price, Department of General Practice and Primary Care. Tel: (01224) 553961, or email: sam.knowles@abdn.ac.uk
Issued by Public Relations Office, External Relations, University of Aberdeen, King's College, Aberdeen. Tel: 01224 272014 Fax: 01224 272086. Contact: Ewan Mathieson.
University Press Office on telephone +44 (0)1224-272960 or email e.darling@abdn.ac.uk.