How red blood cells affect oxygen delivery during sepsis and transfusion

Red blood cell ATP export and transfusion in sepsis

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11004703

This study is looking at how red blood cells help deliver oxygen in the body, especially during serious infections and after blood transfusions, to find ways to improve treatment and outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11004703 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how red blood cells (RBCs) manage oxygen delivery in the body, particularly during sepsis and after blood transfusions. It focuses on the role of ATP, a molecule that RBCs export to help regulate blood flow and oxygen availability. The study will use mouse models to explore how impaired ATP export from RBCs can lead to complications like acute lung injury and increased mortality in septic patients. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to improve transfusion practices and patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing sepsis, particularly those with anemia who may require blood transfusions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing sepsis or do not require blood transfusions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better transfusion strategies that minimize lung injury and improve survival rates in septic patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding RBC function in sepsis can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acute Lung Injury, Acute Pulmonary Injury, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.