An RNA-based treatment to block harmful histones in sepsis
Neutralizing Circulating Histones With an RNA Aptamer to Prevent MultiorganDysfunction in Sepsis
This project looks at whether an RNA drug named KU7 can neutralize harmful histones and help people with sepsis avoid organ failure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247122 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers have developed an RNA aptamer called KU7 that binds excess histone proteins released during sepsis. The team will give KU7 to animal models of sepsis and measure effects on survival, lung swelling, platelet activation, and other organ-injury markers. Experiments will include tests of lung and other organ function after septic challenge to see if KU7 reduces multi-organ dysfunction. Results are intended to support future human clinical trials if the approach works in animals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: In future clinical trials, ideal candidates would be adults hospitalized with sepsis who are at high risk for organ dysfunction or ARDS.
Not a fit: People without sepsis or those whose organ failure is caused by conditions unrelated to extracellular histone release are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to a new therapy that prevents organ failure and reduces deaths from sepsis.
How similar studies have performed: Some preclinical studies targeting extracellular histones have reduced organ injury in animals, but RNA aptamers like KU7 are a novel approach that has not yet been tested in people.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Francis J — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Miller, Francis J
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.