How special liver cells and a protective protein affect severe infection and liver function
Novel role of LSECs in hepatic immune and metabolic function during sepsis
['FUNDING_R01'] · EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11290410
This project looks at how a protective protein in the liver's lining cells helps the liver fight bacterial infection and manage metabolism during sepsis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11290410 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying a protein called HSPA12B in liver lining cells (LSECs) by comparing normal mice to mice that lack this protein and then inducing sepsis to watch what happens. They measure bacterial load, blood lactate, liver glucose production, and structural changes in LSECs and nearby immune cells (Kupffer cells). The team also examines how HSPA12B helps a helper protein called GATA4 move into the cell nucleus, which appears important for keeping LSECs functioning. All work is preclinical lab research aimed at understanding why the liver fails during sepsis and pointing to possible protective strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with severe bacterial sepsis or septic shock, especially those showing signs of liver dysfunction, are the most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People with mild infections, non-bacterial infections, or chronic liver diseases unrelated to sepsis may not see direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to protect liver function and reduce complications or deaths from sepsis.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies show liver endothelial cells influence immunity and metabolism, but focusing on HSPA12B and its interaction with GATA4 is a newer, largely preclinical path.
Where this research is happening
JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES
- EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY — JOHNSON CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, XIAOHUI — EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WANG, XIAOHUI
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 below.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections