How immune cell metabolism affects septic shock
Official title: Macrophage immunometabolism controls septic shock
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11096047 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way immune cells use energy affects the body's reaction to septic shock, which can happen after a severe infection, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with sepsis feel better by reducing harmful inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 22, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $639,636 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI170632-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096047 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced sepsis or are at risk of developing septic shock.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of sepsis or are not at risk for septic shock may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the metabolism of immune cells, specifically macrophages, influences the body's response to septic shock, a severe condition following sepsis. The study focuses on the interaction between bacterial components and host-derived signals that trigger inflammation. By understanding these metabolic changes, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive inflammation during septic shock. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for sepsis and its complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the severity of septic shock and improve recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in sepsis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zanoni, Ivan — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Zanoni, Ivan
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Pragmatic midodrine trial to reduce ICU vasopressor use in septic shock
A practical, patient-focused trial tests whether taking oral midodrine can lessen the need for IV vasopressors and shorten ICU stays for people with sepsis-related low blood pressure.
-
Personalized vasopressor therapy for septic shock
A clinician-scientist at Cleveland Clinic aims to tailor vasopressor treatment for septic shock patients using patient-specific factors.
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Angiotensin-based treatment strategy in septic shock
A clinical trial will compare giving Angiotensin II versus standard norepinephrine to support blood pressure in septic shock patients, aiming to improve outcomes.
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Percutaneous stellate ganglion stimulation to support blood pressure in septic shock
A small, portable neuromodulation device would be tested to help people with septic shock maintain blood pressure while doctors adjust medicines.
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Macrophage metabolism and septic shock in humans
A study at Boston Children’s Hospital will explore how immune cells’ metabolism affects severe infection (septic shock) and whether targeting this metabolic pathway could help patients.
-
Blood transfusions and organ failure in children with septic shock
This project looks at how a child’s circulation, immune status, and the type of red blood cells given affect recovery and organ problems during septic shock in young children.
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.