Cell-free hemoglobin and oxLDL: a pathway to lung inflammation in sepsis
Official title: Cell-free hemoglobin-oxidized LDL-LOX-1 axis and microvascular hyperpermeability during sepsis
Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-11371229 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program looks at how free hemoglobin in the blood and oxidized LDL may break down the lung’s blood vessel barrier during sepsis, potentially leading to ARDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Alabama NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mobile, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00HL166865-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11371229 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with sepsis or at risk of ARDS, and samples from patients with sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
This research may not directly benefit individuals without sepsis or ARDS, or those not meeting study criteria.
What this research studies
In sepsis, the body’s response to infection can cause fluid and proteins to leak from lung blood vessels, hurting breathing. This project studies a specific mechanism: how cell-free hemoglobin and oxidized LDL interact with the LOX-1 receptor to damage the lung endothelium. Researchers will use patient data and laboratory models to uncover how this pathway contributes to vascular leak and lung injury. Understanding this could point to new ways to prevent or lessen ARDS in septic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If the pathway is confirmed, this could lead to targeted therapies to protect the lungs of septic patients and reduce ARDS-related deaths.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work links plasma CFH, oxLDL, and endothelial injury in sepsis, but the specific LOX-1–mediated mechanism in MVEC failure is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Alabama
Mobile, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meegan, Jamie E — University of South Alabama
- Study coordinator: Meegan, Jamie E
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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.