Improving diagnosis of post-traumatic sepsis using plasma microbial DNA sequencing
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11000298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help doctors quickly find out if someone has an infection in their blood after an injury by checking for germs in their blood samples, which could lead to faster and better treatment for patients with sepsis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $190,383 |
| NIH project number | 5K08GM148858-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are trauma patients who are at risk of developing sepsis during their hospital stay.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not trauma victims or those who do not develop sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the diagnosis of post-traumatic sepsis by utilizing microbial DNA sequencing from plasma samples. The approach involves analyzing cell-free DNA in the blood to identify the presence of microbial pathogens that may cause sepsis. By leveraging advanced genomic techniques and bioinformatics, the research aims to develop more accurate diagnostic tests that can lead to timely treatment for patients suffering from sepsis after trauma. The principal investigator, an Assistant Professor of Surgery, is committed to improving patient outcomes through this innovative diagnostic method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of sepsis, potentially saving lives and improving recovery outcomes for trauma patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using genomic techniques for diagnosing infections, suggesting that this approach could be effective, though it may also be considered novel in the context of post-traumatic sepsis.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kisat, Mehreen T — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Kisat, Mehreen T
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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.