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Project researcher: Dr Dimitrios Karponis, Academic Foundation Programme 

Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions of the skin have been described in a variety of contexts, from medication side effects to a test of the immune system (i.e. the Mantoux test in tuberculosis). DTH reactions of the skin are commonly referred to as intradermal skin tests and offer a window to human immunology in the form of a very accessible tissue, skin. 

DTH testing is a valuable tool in experimental medicine; between sensitisation and rechallenge with an immunogenic agent, administration of a medicinal product can alter the DTH response thus, yielding valuable pharmacodynamic insights. 

The induction and measurement of DTH has varied significantly between different studies. The team which Dimitros works with aims to create a standardised roadmap for researchers on how to use the DTH in the setting of drug development. 

The team is conducting a systematic review to identify how DTH has been induced and measured in the literature, and to explore the effect of various biological and therapeutic interventions on DTH. It is developing a framework to guide researchers on how to conduct future studies utilising the DTH response in drug development. 

During his AFP, Dimitrios has also contributed to several other projects:

  • A systematic review on the use of keyhole limpet haemocyanin in drug development
  • A review of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to biologic treatments in patients with psoriasis or hidradenitis suppurativa
  • A clinical trial on the safety and dosing of a 5-aminolevulinic acid in cardiac surgery
  • A point-of-care assay to distinguish between viral and bacterial pneumonias

 

July 2022