How high blood sugar affects infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
Official title: Hyperglycemia and increased severity to Staphylococcus aureus infections.
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11128658 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes can make infections, especially from Staphylococcus aureus, more serious by causing the body’s immune system to react too strongly, and it hopes to find ways to help improve infection treatment for those with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $685,993 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180777-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11128658 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who are at risk of severe infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without diabetes or those not experiencing hyperglycemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the link between chronic high blood sugar levels and increased severity of infections, particularly focusing on Staphylococcus aureus, in individuals with diabetes. It explores how high glucose levels can lead to heightened inflammation, making the immune system overreact to infections. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind this response and how it can lead to severe complications like multiple organ dysfunction. By examining the role of specific inflammatory mediators, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving infection outcomes in diabetic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for infections in diabetic patients, potentially reducing complications and mortality rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammatory responses can improve outcomes in similar conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serezani, C. Henrique — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Serezani, C. Henrique
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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.