Frequently asked questions 

 

Why is this study relevant to children’s health?

The study is important because it focuses on lung diseases in children, an area where much remains unknown. By understanding the microbial and inflammatory environments in children’s lungs, we hope to develop better and more targeted treatment methods.

What is the aim of INSPIRE CHILD?

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between lung diseases and the microbiome, cytokines, and immunophenotypes in children’s lungs. We hope to identify specific profiles, depending on the children’s condition, that can improve the diagnosis and treatment of paediatric lung diseases.

What is bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)?

BAL is a medical procedure in which a small amount of saline is introduced into a part of the lung and then suctioned back out. This fluid now contains cells and other substances from the lung that can be analysed to better understand lung health. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, so the patient does not feel anything during it.

How are participants selected for the study?

Participants are selected from children already scheduled for bronchoscopy based on a clinical indication. They are recruited if they meet specific inclusion criteria, including age, lung condition, and the feasibility of obtaining BAL fluid and blood samples.

Are there any risks associated with participating in the study?

The risks of the study are minimal, as the BAL sampling is performed during a bronchoscopy already planned under general anaesthesia. However, there is a very small risk of bleeding or infection associated with the procedure.

Can parents withdraw their child from the study after giving consent?

Yes, parents can withdraw their child from the study at any time. If consent is withdrawn, all collected biological material will be destroyed, and no further analyses will be conducted on the material.

What is a microbiome, and why is it being studied?

A microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms, such as bacteria, living in our bodies. This study examines the lung microbiome because changes in the microbiome may play a significant role in the development of lung diseases.

What are cytokines, and why are they being studied?

Cytokines are small proteins that play a central role in the body’s immune response by regulating inflammation and cell-to-cell communication. This study analyses cytokines to understand the inflammatory environment in children’s lungs and how this environment varies with different lung diseases. By studying cytokines in BAL and blood samples, we aim to identify patterns that may improve the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

What does immunophenotype mean, and what role does it play in the study?

Immunophenotype refers to the characterisation of immune cells based on their surface markers and functions. This study examines the immunophenotype of cells in children’s lungs to understand how different types of immune cells contribute to lung diseases. Analysing these cells can provide deeper insight into the immunological mechanisms driving the disease.

How will the study’s results be published?

The study results will be published in scientific journals and made accessible to both professionals and the public. Positive, negative, and inconclusive results will all be shared to contribute to the overall knowledge base on children’s lung health.

You can follow updates under Publications.