Blood tests and mitochondrial treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning
The Use of Blood Cells and Optical Cerebral Complex IV Redox States in a Porcine Model of CO Poisoning with Evaluation of Mitochondrial Therapy
Looks at whether a drug that supports mitochondria plus blood and brain oxygen measurements could help people harmed by carbon monoxide exposure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11189624 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a pig model that mimics human carbon monoxide poisoning to learn how mitochondria in the brain are damaged and whether a succinate prodrug can help. Researchers will measure blood cells and use optical sensors to read the redox state of a brain enzyme (Complex IV) alongside standard measures like carboxyhemoglobin. By giving the mitochondrial-supporting drug with oxygen therapies, they will compare changes in mitochondrial function and the optical/blood signals to see which markers best reflect injury and recovery. The goal is to find better biomarkers and a potential antidote that could move into human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recent acute carbon monoxide exposure—for example from house fires or exhaust inhalation—who present to emergency care and are candidates for oxygen or hyperbaric therapy.
Not a fit: People with chronic low-level CO exposure, long-standing, irreversible brain injury, or conditions unrelated to CO poisoning are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to faster, more accurate tests of injury and a new mitochondrial-based antidote that reduces brain damage after carbon monoxide exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Early animal data from the team show promise that a succinate prodrug can relieve partial Complex IV inhibition, but human benefit has not yet been demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jang, David H — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Jang, David H
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.