How support cells around brain blood vessels (pericytes) affect sepsis-related brain and blood vessel damage
The Role of Pericytes in the Vascular Dysfunction of Sepsis
This work looks at how pericytes — cells that help control blood flow and the blood‑brain barrier — change after sepsis and may lead to memory and thinking problems in sepsis survivors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11312635 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use mouse models that mimic sepsis to study memory problems and changes in brain blood vessels. They measure pericyte numbers and function after sepsis, study the role of the gene regulator Fli-1 in pericyte activation and survival, and examine how these changes relate to neuron dysfunction. The team uses behavioral memory tests, tissue analysis, and molecular tools to test ways to protect or restore pericyte function. Results are intended to point toward therapies that could prevent or reduce cognitive decline after sepsis.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who survived sepsis and now have new or worsening memory, thinking, or mood problems would be the most relevant candidates for future trials informed by this research.
Not a fit: People without a history of sepsis or whose cognitive problems are due to other causes may not see direct benefit from this research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that protect brain blood vessels and reduce memory and mental health problems after sepsis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have reported pericyte loss and blood‑brain barrier disruption after sepsis, but targeting pericytes to prevent cognitive decline remains largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Hongkuan — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Fan, Hongkuan
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.