How obesity affects immune cell behavior in septic surgical patients

The impact of obesity on neutrophil swarming in septic surgical patients

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11033517

This study is looking at how obesity affects the immune system in patients who have surgery and get an infection called sepsis, with the goal of finding ways to help both overweight and normal-weight patients fight infections better.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11033517 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between obesity and immune response in patients undergoing surgery who develop sepsis. It focuses on how fat cells release specific molecules that alter the behavior of immune cells called neutrophils, which are crucial for fighting infections. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these changes and explore potential treatments to improve immune function in both obese and lean patients. By examining these interactions in a controlled laboratory setting, the researchers hope to identify ways to enhance neutrophil activity and improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are surgical patients who are either obese or lean and have developed sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or do not have sepsis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for septic surgical patients, particularly those who are obese, enhancing their immune response and survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting immune cell behavior can improve outcomes in septic patients, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.