University of the Sunshine Coast Clinical Trials is investigating an injectable antibody therapy designed to reduce inflammation that causes asthma.
The trial is hoped to provide targeted treatment results for asthma, while also aiming to minimise the number of injections required.
Principal Investigator Dr Indika Leelasena said approximately 11 percent of Australians are affected by asthma, which causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness.
"This investigative antibody treatment intends to work by blocking inflammatory signals in the body which cause asthma," Dr Leelasena said.
"It aims to suppress inflammation in the airway linings, and potentially lessen the symptoms experienced by a person with asthma.
"This trial highlights the importance of ongoing research into potential treatments that aim to improve the quality of life for those affected."
University of the Sunshine Coast Clinical Trials is seeking people aged between 18 and 65 years old, who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate asthma to participate in a 28-week study at its Moreton Bay clinic.
Clinical Trials Coordinator Charlaine Reeve said participants would receive the treatment or a placebo through two injections throughout the study.
"The trial aims to investigate the safety of the treatment and how effectively the dosage may be in reducing symptoms of asthma," she said.
Participants will be asked to attend 15 clinic visits, including two four-day stays at the clinic.
UniSC Clinical Trials is a world-class clinical trials network that partners with healthcare professionals across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, and Brisbane.
More details at www.usc.edu.au/trials or call 07 5409 8640.
