Improving immunity to prevent infections in burn patients

Protection Against Nosocomial Infections After Severe Burn Injury Through Trained Immunity

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11063229

This study is looking at ways to boost the immune system in people who have had severe burn injuries, helping them fight off dangerous infections, especially those that are hard to treat with antibiotics.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11063229 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance the immune response in patients who have suffered severe burn injuries to prevent infections that can be life-threatening. The approach focuses on using Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists to 'train' the immune system, making it more effective against infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. By studying the effects of burn injuries on immune cell metabolism and function, the research aims to develop new immunomodulatory therapies that could significantly improve patient outcomes. The methodology includes a series of integrated projects that will explore the cellular mechanisms involved in this process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have sustained severe burn injuries and are at high risk for nosocomial infections.

Not a fit: Patients with minor burns or those who do not have a compromised immune system may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce the risk of infections in severely burned patients, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using TLR agonists for enhancing immune responses, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.
Conditions Burn injury
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.