A new platform to study brain injury caused by infections.
The µSiM-hNVU - a human BBB platform for the study of brain injury mechanisms during systemic infection
This study is looking at how infections like sepsis can harm the brain and affect thinking, using a special device that simulates the blood-brain barrier to see how different factors in the blood impact brain cells, helping us understand these effects better for people who might be facing these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913390 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how systemic infections, like sepsis, can lead to brain injuries and cognitive impairments. It utilizes a cutting-edge device called the µSiM-hNVU, which mimics the human blood-brain barrier to study the effects of blood-borne factors on brain cells. By introducing various cells and molecules into this platform, researchers aim to identify the mechanisms behind brain injury during infections. This approach allows for real-time observation of brain inflammation and cellular responses, providing insights that traditional animal models cannot offer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced sepsis and are at risk for long-term cognitive issues.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced sepsis or do not have cognitive impairments related to infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent cognitive impairments in sepsis survivors.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on brain injury in sepsis using animal models, this approach using a human-derived platform is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcgrath, James L — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Mcgrath, James L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.