Multi-Omics Analysis on Pathogenesis and Survival in Children (INTERCEPT)

Funder
National Institutes of Health 

Principal Investigators
Reinout van Crevel
Professor Guy Thwaites

Sponsor
Radboud University Medical Center

The INTERCEPT project aims to investigate the immunopathology of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in children, focusing on metabolic pathways, metalloproteinases, and the potential therapeutic effect of aspirin, to develop more effective host-directed therapies.

Background

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) poses a significant health threat, particularly to children, with high mortality rates and long-term morbidity. Recent studies have highlighted the role of immunopathology in TBM outcomes, shedding light on potential pathways for more effective therapies. However, much of this research has focused on adults, leaving a critical gap in understanding the pediatric aspect of the disease.

Aims

The INTERCEPT Study specifically aims to:  

  • Investigate specific metabolic pathways, such as tryptophan metabolism, and their genetic regulation in pediatric TBM. 
  • Explore the role of metalloproteinases in TBM immunopathology and outcome. 
  • Evaluate the therapeutic potential of aspirin in pediatric TBM and identify new treatment targets through the integration of large-scale clinical and omics data. 

Study Design

This study takes advantage of samples from other studies, such as SURE and PediPOT.

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Radboud University

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

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The Ultimate Prevention: Vaccine Status

What if the volunteer leader had checked everyone’s Tetanus vaccination status before leaving for the field trip?

Vaccination Changes Everything

  • 100% Preventable: As you can see from our play, Tetanus cannot be cured easily once symptoms start and can be costly. But it is almost completely preventable with regular vaccination.
  • 10-Year Rule: Adults need a Tetanus booster shot every 10 years to maintain immunity.
  • Early booster shot: If you receive a deep or dirty cut (such as in the play, one from a rusty tool), you may need a booster if your last shot was more than 5 years ago.

When was your last Tetanus shot? Check your records today — a simple booster is the ultimate protection against unexpected accidents.

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

progress step 5

Scenario Solved at Step 5!

Life-saving intervention! Jaw stiffness (lockjaw) is a classic symptom of active Tetanus toxin. Immediate hospital admission is required to secure the airway and control muscle spasms.

What if Tam had an ultimate shield against tetanus—protecting him from rusty tools before the trip even started?

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

progress step 4

Scenario Solved at Step 4!

Good call! Healthcare providers depend on the full context. Clearly stating that an injury involved rusted metal alerts the nurse to assess Tetanus exposure immediately.

What if Tam had an ultimate shield against tetanus—protecting him from rusty tools before the trip even started?

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

progress step 3

Scenario Solved at Step 3!

Spot on! Social media content often promotes unverified advice that delays crucial medical intervention. Deep, dirty cuts always require professional evaluation within hours.

What if Tam had an ultimate shield against tetanus—protecting him from rusty tools before the trip even started?

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

progress step 2

Scenario Solved at Step 2!

Smart choice! Clostridium tetani bacteria thrive in organic material like dirt and leaves. Keeping raw plants out of deep cuts prevents pushing bacterial spores deeper into tissue.

What if Tam had an ultimate shield against tetanus—protecting him from rusty tools before the trip even started?

Forum Theatre Simulation

Analyse Tam’s choices. Step inside the story as an interactive spectator to break the chain of medical mishaps before it’s too late.

STORY TIMELINE PROGRESSION

progress 1 of 6

Scenario Solved at Step 1!

Great call! By stopping work with high-risk, corroded tools, you removed the physical source of Tetanus exposure entirely before an injury could even happen.

What if Tam had an ultimate shield against tetanus—protecting him from rusty tools before the trip even started?

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